Twice-weekly flights mark a significant step for regional connectivity and economic development in the Southern Highlands
PNG Air, the People's Choice airline, on 20 July announced the launch of a new service connecting Moro with Mt Hagen and Port Moresby, operating every Monday and Thursday. Tickets are now on sale, with the inaugural flight scheduled for 10 August 2026.
The new service restores direct air access to Moro, marking the return of scheduled flights after a six-year absence. It will provide much-needed connectivity for the region, reconnecting communities, contractors and businesses operating throughout the Southern Highlands with the rest of the country.
The announcement builds on PNG Air's growing relationship with the Kutubu region. Earlier this year, PNG Air marked a historic milestone with the delivery of Mangi Kutubu, an ATR 42-600 owned by Petroleum Resources Kutubu (PRK) — the resource-owner investment vehicle for the people of Kutubu — and leased to PNG Air for operation.
This marked the first time in Papua New Guinea's history that landowners had acquired, owned and leased an aircraft to a major airline. It signalled the community's confidence in aviation as a driver of regional development and as an investment that delivers long-term benefits. The launch of scheduled Regular Public Transport (RPT) services to Moro is the next step in that partnership, transforming a landmark achievement into reliable, long-term connectivity for the region.
"Restoring air access to Moro is about more than convenience – it's about opportunity. This route supports the contractors, businesses and communities that drive this region forward, and it's a route PNG Air is proud to fly," said Brian Fraser, Chief Executive Officer of PNG Air.
PNG Air thanked Santos for providing access to the airfield and supporting the return of RPT services to Moro. The route is expected to benefit a wide range of stakeholders, including residents of Moro and surrounding rural communities, contractors and businesses operating across the region, and the tourism sector, which is expected to grow with the near completion of the new MRDC hotel in Moro.
Flight details
- Route: Moro ↔ Mt Hagen | Moro ↔ Port Moresby
- Frequency: Every Monday and Thursday
- Inaugural flight: Monday, 10 August 2026
Bookings: Now open via pngair.com.pg, through travel agents, or at participating PNG Post outlets.
Moro Aerodrome is owned and operated by Santos. The company maintains comprehensive safety and security standards at all operational facilities, and compliance with these requirements is mandatory for all travellers while on site or in transit. Passengers will receive a safety and security briefing on board the aircraft prior to arrival.
For nearly four decades, PNG Air has proudly connected the people of Papua New Guinea through safe, reliable and affordable air services. Listed on the Port Moresby Stock Exchange since 2008, the airline is majority-owned by Papua New Guinean institutions, including the MRDC Group and NasFund, and is supported by approximately 2,900 local shareholders.
PNG Air currently operates more than 460 flights each week across 22 destinations, providing essential passenger and cargo services that support economic development, community connectivity and national unity. In 2024, the airline carried more than 150,000 passengers, underscoring its pivotal role as one of Papua New Guinea's leading national carriers.
