International Trade and Investment Minister Richard Maru has welcomed R&F Group Chairman and President Li Zhang to Papua New Guinea, expressing confidence that the Chinese property developer will consider major investments in the country's tourism, hospitality and real estate sectors.

Li arrived in Port Moresby on Tuesday aboard a private jet after an advance team visited Papua New Guinea two weeks earlier to assess potential investment opportunities.

Maru said the government is optimistic the visit will encourage the company to pursue foreign direct investment in the country.

R&F Group is one of China's largest property developers and owns more than 80 luxury hotels managed by international brands including Ritz-Carlton, Park Hyatt and Grand Hyatt. The company's portfolio also includes shopping malls and office buildings, with more than 450 projects across more than 145 cities and regions worldwide.

Maru said the government hopes the company will invest in several priority developments, including the Paga Hill Estate, Portside Gardens Development and the Duran Farm Housing Project.

"We are very confident that the R&F Group is one of China's most serious investors and we look forward to hosting the chairman and his delegation and securing their firm decision to invest in a very big way in our country," Maru said.

He added that the government would provide support to facilitate the company's investments if they proceed.

The visit comes as Papua New Guinea seeks to build on the recovery of its tourism sector. According to the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority, international visitor arrivals rose to 103,881 in 2025, while 92% of surveyed visitors said they would return and 88% indicated they would recommend the destination, reflecting growing confidence in the country's tourism offerings.

The Tourism Promotion Authority has also reported continued growth in visitor arrivals and spending, supported by improved air connectivity and targeted international marketing campaigns. 

Papua New Guinea has won the Best Booth Award in the National Tourism Organisation (NTO) category at the 2026 Travel Madness Expo in Manila, Philippines, highlighting the country's growing profile as a tourism destination in Asia.

The award was presented during the three-day expo held from July 10 to 12, recognizing Papua New Guinea's exhibition booth for showcasing the country's tourism experiences, cultural heritage and visitor attractions.

More than 170 tourism organizations, airlines, hotels, resorts and travel agencies from the Philippines and across Asia participated in the event, one of the region's largest consumer travel exhibitions.

Papua New Guinea was represented by Air Niugini and the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), supported by tourism operators and hospitality partners including Kokopo Beach Bungalow, Karanas Tours, Dynasty Seafood Restaurant, Alibi Bar & Grill, Akura, Daikoku Japanese Restaurant, Cuppa Cafe, Asia Aromas and PNG Coffee.

The delegation promoted Papua New Guinea's diving, birdwatching, trekking, cultural festivals, islands, coffee, handicrafts and other tourism experiences.

Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer Alan Milne said the recognition reflected the strong partnership between the national airline, PNGTPA and the country's tourism industry.

"This recognition is a wonderful achievement for Papua New Guinea. It demonstrates what can be accomplished when the national airline, PNGTPA and our tourism operators work together to showcase our country as a vibrant, welcoming and authentic destination," Milne said.

He added that international travel exhibitions remain an important platform for building relationships with travel partners, increasing destination awareness and encouraging more visitors to experience Papua New Guinea.

Air Niugini Regional Manager for Asia Joshua Koh, who coordinated the airline's participation alongside PNGTPA and industry partners, said winning the award exceeded expectations.

"We came to Manila with one objective—to promote Papua New Guinea as a destination and support our tourism industry. Winning the Best Booth Award was something we never expected, making this recognition even more special," Koh said.

He said the recognition belonged to all organizations that contributed to the country's exhibition and demonstrated that Papua New Guinea could compete alongside much larger tourism destinations through collaboration.

The Travel Madness Expo serves as a platform for tourism organizations, airlines, hotels and travel companies to market destinations, launch travel packages and build partnerships with travel agents and consumers across the region.

Following the Manila event, Air Niugini and PNGTPA will continue promoting Papua New Guinea at regional tourism exhibitions, including the NATAS Travel Fair in Singapore in August and the Holiday and Travel Expo in Hong Kong in September.

The Best Booth Award underscores Papua New Guinea's efforts to strengthen its presence in key Asian tourism markets through coordinated promotion by the national airline, tourism authority and private sector partners.

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), in partnership with the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), has launched the National Capital District Accommodation Inventory & Capacity Survey, an initiative aimed at strengthening tourism investment, destination planning and industry growth through the collection of reliable accommodation data.

The survey was officially launched during a stakeholder workshop at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Port Moresby on 30 June, bringing together accommodation providers, tourism stakeholders and government representatives to outline the survey's objectives, methodology and implementation.

The survey will establish a comprehensive and up-to-date database of accommodation establishments across the National Capital District, providing reliable information to support tourism development, attract investment and enable evidence-based policy and planning.

The initiative is also expected to improve Port Moresby's readiness to host major national and international events by providing accurate information on accommodation capacity and availability, including future planning for the 2028 PNG Chiefs Rugby Games.

PNGTPA Executive Manager for Partnership and Product Development, Kennewton Kennedy, said the survey represents an important step towards building a stronger and more sustainable tourism industry.

"Quality tourism planning begins with quality data. This Accommodation Inventory and Capacity Survey will provide us with an accurate picture of the accommodation sector within the National Capital District, enabling government and industry to make informed decisions that support sustainable tourism growth," Kennedy said.

He said the initiative would generate long-term value for both government and the private sector by identifying opportunities for investment and improving destination planning.

"This initiative is about more than counting rooms. It is about understanding our tourism capacity, identifying opportunities for investment, improving destination planning and ensuring Port Moresby is well prepared to host major national and international events," he said.

Kennedy also encouraged accommodation operators throughout the National Capital District to actively participate in the survey, assuring them that all information collected would remain confidential and be used solely for planning and development purposes.

NCDC Economic and Business Development Manager, Busa Jeremiah Wenogo, said strengthening tourism in Port Moresby would have wider economic benefits for the country.

"Port Moresby is not only the nation's administrative and business capital, but also a destination that encourages visitors to stay longer, experience our culture and hospitality, and use the city as a gateway to explore the rest of Papua New Guinea. When we strengthen tourism in the National Capital District, we also strengthen tourism opportunities for every province," Wenogo said.

According to PNGTPA, the survey will develop an accurate inventory of accommodation establishments, assess accommodation capacity, support tourism investment and destination planning, identify accommodation availability for major events including the 2028 PNG Chiefs Rugby Games, and strengthen tourism planning, emergency preparedness and visitor information services.

The initiative reflects the shared commitment of PNGTPA and NCDC to improving tourism intelligence, enhancing visitor experiences and creating a stronger investment environment for Papua New Guinea's tourism industry through informed planning and strategic partnerships.

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), in partnership with the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), has officially launched the National Capital District Accommodation Inventory & Capacity Survey, marking the beginning of a collaborative initiative to strengthen tourism planning through the collection of accurate and comprehensive accommodation data.

The survey was officially launched during a stakeholder workshop held at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Port Moresby, bringing together accommodation providers, tourism stakeholders, and government representatives to introduce the survey's objectives, methodology, and implementation.

The Accommodation Inventory & Capacity Survey will establish a comprehensive and up-to-date database of accommodation establishments across the National Capital District. The information collected will provide reliable data to support tourism development, destination planning, investment attraction, and evidence-based policymaking and decision-making.

The survey will also strengthen Port Moresby's readiness to host major national and international events by providing accurate information on accommodation capacity and availability, including future planning for the PNG Chiefs Rugby League Games 2028.

PNGTPA Executive Manager for Partnership & Product Development, Mr Kennewton Kennedy, said the initiative represents an important milestone in building a stronger, more resilient, and sustainable tourism industry.

"Quality tourism planning begins with quality data. This Accommodation Inventory and Capacity Survey will provide us with an accurate picture of the accommodation sector within the National Capital District, enabling government and industry to make informed decisions that support sustainable tourism growth," Mr Kennedy said.

He said the survey would deliver long-term benefits for both government and the private sector.

"This initiative is about more than counting rooms. It is about understanding our tourism capacity, identifying opportunities for investment, improving destination planning, and ensuring Port Moresby is well prepared to host major national and international events."

Mr Kennedy also encouraged accommodation operators across the National Capital District to participate actively in the survey.

"The success of this exercise depends on the participation of accommodation providers. We encourage operators to provide accurate information, with the assurance that all data collected will be treated confidentially and used solely for planning and development purposes."

Speaking at the workshop, NCDC Economic and Business Development Manager Mr Busa Jeremiah Wenogo highlighted the broader significance of the initiative for Papua New Guinea's tourism industry.

"Port Moresby is not only the nation's administrative and business capital but also a destination that encourages visitors to stay longer, experience our culture and hospitality, and use the city as the gateway to explore the rest of Papua New Guinea. When we strengthen tourism in the National Capital District, we also strengthen tourism opportunities for every province."

The survey will develop an accurate inventory of accommodation establishments, assess accommodation capacity, support tourism investment and destination planning, identify accommodation availability for major events—including the PNG Chiefs Rugby League Games 2028—and strengthen tourism planning, emergency preparedness, and visitor information services.

The Accommodation Inventory & Capacity Survey reflects the shared commitment of PNGTPA and NCDC to improving tourism intelligence, enhancing visitor experiences, and supporting the sustainable growth of Papua New Guinea's tourism industry through strong partnerships and informed planning.

Papua New Guinea's tourism sector contributed an estimated US$244 million (PGK1 billion) to the economy in 2025 as international visitor arrivals continued to recover, although average spending per traveller declined, according to the latest International Visitor Survey.

The survey, released by the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) and the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), found international visitor arrivals rose to 103,881 in 2025 from 100,223 a year earlier, reflecting continued recovery supported by targeted marketing campaigns, improved air connectivity and government initiatives to strengthen the country's tourism sector.

The annual survey analysed 4,827 responses from 5,139 questionnaires collected, representing about 7 per cent of total visitors and a 19 per cent response rate.

The report found that 41 per cent of respondents were first-time visitors, while the average household income of travellers ranged between US$80,000 and US$99,999.

Natural attractions, cultural diversity, business opportunities, visits to family and friends, and the country's Second World War heritage were among the main reasons visitors travelled to Papua New Guinea.

Average spending per visitor was US$2,352 per trip, including US$2,087 in prepaid expenditure and US$995 spent within Papua New Guinea. Around 65 per cent of prepaid spending, equivalent to US$1,356 per visitor, flowed directly into the local economy.

Despite the increase in arrivals, average visitor spending declined from 2024 as travellers stayed for shorter periods, averaging 10 nights, while the visitor mix shifted towards lower-spending segments.

The report said the trend reflected changing travel behaviour but also highlighted opportunities to increase tourism value through higher-yield markets and improved visitor experiences.

Visitor satisfaction remained high, with an overall rating of four out of five. About 92 per cent of respondents said they would return to Papua New Guinea, while 88 per cent said they would recommend the country as a travel destination.

Visitors identified the friendliness of local communities, the country's natural beauty and its rich cultural heritage among Papua New Guinea's strongest attractions. However, they also cited safety and security, infrastructure, air transport reliability and travel costs as areas requiring further improvement.

PNGTPA Chief Executive Officer Eric Mossman Uvovo said the survey provides valuable evidence to help refine tourism marketing strategies, strengthen partnerships and improve tourism products and services.

"The International Visitor Survey provides critical insights into the motivations, behaviours and experiences of our visitors," Uvovo said.

SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker said the findings would support evidence-based tourism planning in Papua New Guinea while contributing to broader efforts to strengthen sustainable tourism development across the Pacific.

Papua New Guinea is one of 10 Pacific island countries participating in the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative, which is funded by the New Zealand Government and provides tourism data to support policy-making and industry development across the region.

Nine accommodation providers in Papua New Guinea have been recognised in Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards 2026, a distinction that highlights top-performing hospitality businesses based on traveller reviews and ratings from around the world.

The recognition was announced by the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), which said the awards reflect the country's growing reputation for quality hospitality and visitor experiences. Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards are based on reviews submitted over a 12-month period and recognise businesses that consistently receive positive feedback from guests and rank among the platform's top-rated listings globally.

The Papua New Guinea properties recognised in the 2026 awards are Ela Beach Hotel, The Stanley Hotel & Suites, Grand Papua Hotel, Hilton Port Moresby Hotel & Residences, Loloata Island Resort, Lamana Hotel, The Sanctuary Hotel Resort and Spa, Rapopo Plantation Resort and Citi Boutique Hotel.

According to PNGTPA, the recognition demonstrates the commitment of Papua New Guinea's tourism and hospitality operators to providing high-quality accommodation, personalised service and memorable guest experiences. The agency said the award-winning properties showcase the diversity of the country's accommodation sector, ranging from waterfront resorts and island retreats to business hotels and boutique properties.

PNGTPA congratulated the award recipients and said their achievements contribute to strengthening Papua New Guinea's reputation as a tourism destination on the international stage. The authority noted that positive traveller reviews and globally recognised accolades are becoming increasingly influential as international travel continues to recover and expand.

The recognition comes as Papua New Guinea seeks to grow visitor arrivals and strengthen its tourism industry through improved service standards, destination marketing and investment in tourism infrastructure. Industry observers said the inclusion of multiple PNG properties in the Tripadvisor rankings provides valuable international exposure for the country's hospitality sector.

Tripadvisor says its Travelers' Choice Awards recognise businesses that consistently receive strong traveller reviews and are among the highest-rated listings on its platform worldwide. The awards are determined using the quality and quantity of reviews and ratings submitted by travellers over a specified period.

Missionary Aviation Fellowship (MAF) has played a critical role in supporting Papua New Guinea’s rural economy and national development through its aviation services over the past 75 years, according to Civil Aviation Minister Wake Goi.

Speaking during MAF’s 75th anniversary thanksgiving service in Mount Hagen, Western Highlands Province, on 7 May 2026, Minister Goi described MAF as “a lifeline to the most remote and isolated communities across our country.” He said that, in a nation defined by rugged terrain and limited road infrastructure, the organisation had “consistently bridged the gap, bringing hope, connection, and opportunity where it is needed most.”

The Minister said MAF’s services extended beyond aviation operations, highlighting its role in transporting medical supplies, assisting vulnerable patients, supporting education services, and delivering essential goods to rural communities.

“Your contributions in airlifting medical supplies, transporting the sick and vulnerable, supporting education services, and enabling the delivery of essential goods have transformed countless lives,” he said.

Minister Goi also highlighted the organisation’s contribution to rural economic participation, saying MAF had helped connect farmers and small businesses to markets, allowing communities to engage more meaningfully in national development.

“MAF’s role in connecting rural farmers and small businesses to markets has also strengthened local economies, empowering communities to participate meaningfully in national development,” he said. “This is not merely aviation; it is nation-building at its most practical and compassionate level.”

He acknowledged MAF as a strategic partner in supporting the mandates of the Rural Airstrips Agency (RAA), saying its continued operations complemented government efforts to maintain and expand rural airstrip infrastructure across the country.

“As Minister for Civil Aviation, I also acknowledge MAF as a key strategic partner in advancing the mandates of the Rural Airstrips Agency,” he said. “Your continued operations complement government efforts to maintain and expand rural airstrip infrastructure, ensuring that no community is left behind.”

Minister Goi also recognised MAF’s long-standing support for churches and Christian missions in Papua New Guinea, saying the organisation had contributed significantly to strengthening faith, hope and unity in remote communities.

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to working alongside MAF to improve aviation services and expand access to rural populations.

“May the next 75 years of MAF’s service be even more impactful, as together we build a more connected, inclusive and prosperous Papua New Guinea,” he said.

PNG Air has launched a nationwide April Fool’s Day promotion combining a limited-time airfare sale with a culturally grounded giveaway under the campaign title “Pigs Can Fly.” The campaign begins with a 48-hour flash sale offering 30% off airfares across its network during a limited booking period.

Alongside the fare promotion, PNG Air has announced it will award 10 pigs to individuals who participate in a social media contest by following, liking and sharing campaign content on Facebook or Instagram. Entries will be accepted until 07 April 2026.

In Papua New Guinea, pigs hold significant social and economic importance. They are widely recognised as symbols of wealth, status and community connection, and play a central role in traditional ceremonies, including weddings, compensation exchanges and community celebrations. Against this backdrop, PNG Air said it aims to go beyond conventional promotions by offering something of genuine cultural relevance.

PNG Air stated that the campaign was designed to balance the lighthearted nature of April Fool’s Day with a respectful acknowledgement of cultural values.

“This initiative reflects both the spirit of the day and the importance of community in Papua New Guinea,” a PNG Air spokesperson said. “Pigs are an important part of cultural life, and this campaign is designed to honour that significance while capturing the attention of Papua New Guineans.”

The airline also confirmed that all pigs associated with the promotion are sourced from Boroma Piggery in Port Moresby, known for producing high-quality pork. Each winner will have until the end of April to collect their pig from Boroma.

The campaign forms part of PNG Air’s broader strategy to engage domestic travellers through locally relevant initiatives, while continuing to position air travel as an accessible and essential service across the country.

The airfare discount is available for a limited 48-hour period. Contest winners will be announced following the close of the promotional period on 07 April 2026.

For nearly four decades, PNG Air has connected the people of Papua New Guinea with 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, Pacific Balanced Fund and NasFund — and 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.

Air Niugini has launched a companywide Customer Experience Transformation (CXT) programme aimed at improving service standards and positioning the national carrier for a higher international airline rating.

The initiative was introduced during the airline’s first staff town hall of 2026 held last Friday in Port Moresby, which also marked the formal welcome of newly appointed Chief Executive Officer Alan Milne.

The CXT programme focuses on strengthening service culture, refining airline products, improving operational systems and aligning departments across the organisation to deliver a consistent and high-quality travel experience.

As part of the transformation, Air Niugini will review around 800 customer touchpoints across the passenger journey, including website and booking systems, airport check-in and lounges, boarding and ground services, onboard seating and cabin service, inflight entertainment, catering and the arrival experience.

The initiative is organised around seven workstreams responsible for different stages of the customer journey to ensure coordinated improvements across the airline.

Acting Chief Operating Officer and project sponsor Capt. Samiu Taufa said the programme represents a significant step in strengthening the airline’s service delivery.

“CXT is more than a programme — it represents our commitment to elevate Air Niugini’s service standards, strengthen our culture and modernise the way we operate. Every customer touchpoint matters, and every employee plays a role in shaping the experience we deliver,” Taufa said.

He added that the transformation is anchored in Air Niugini’s Bird of Paradise Service core belief — “Respect and Care for All,” described as Pasin bilong yumi, or the organisation’s shared values guiding behaviour and decision-making.

In December last year, Air Niugini received a 3-Star Airline Rating from Skytrax, the international air transport rating organisation that evaluates airlines through audits and passenger surveys.

Skytrax assesses airlines across several categories, including cabin service, seating comfort, catering, inflight entertainment, cleanliness and overall passenger experience. A 4-Star rating indicates a high and consistent level of product and service quality.

Through the CXT programme, Air Niugini aims to achieve a 4-Star Skytrax rating by 2027, positioning the airline among leading carriers in the region.

Programme Manager Joeli Qereqeretabua said service excellence depends on building the right organisational culture.

“At the heart of service excellence is mindset. Through the CXT programme, we are mobilising teams across the organisation and strengthening the standards and capabilities that enable our people to deliver ‘Respect and Care for All’ every day,” Qereqeretabua said.

Milne, who previously served with Air Niugini from 2018 to 2020, expressed appreciation for the welcome from employees and said he was encouraged by the company’s focus on improving customer experience.

“My vision is to foster a culture where our people are empowered to identify solutions and deliver outcomes,” Milne said. “I fully support our teams as they work through challenges, and I am committed to ensuring we move forward together with clarity and purpose.”

Employees who contributed ideas to the Bird of Paradise Service core belief were recognised during the town hall with prizes, including return airline tickets to destinations of their choice.

The event was livestreamed to staff across domestic outports and international stations, allowing employees throughout the network to participate in the milestone event.

The Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) participated in the Ministry of International Trade and Investment Stakeholders High-Level Planning Workshop in Lae, Morobe Province on 16 February 2026.

Deputy CEO and Chief Investment Officer John Tuaim presented MRDC’s vision to transform the East New Britain township of Kokopo into the regional tourist hub of the Pacific under the Kokopo Tourism Economic Zone (K-TEZ) Initiative.

The K–TEZ initiative proposes a comprehensive infrastructure uplift program, including the construction of multiple internationally branded hotels and resorts, development of marine facilities, and supporting tourism infrastructure, with an estimated total investment exceeding US$4 billion.

The infrastructure plan includes the development of Tokua Airport as an international gateway, road upgrades linking Kokopo, Rabaul, Pomio, and all tourism precincts, development of wharf, marina, and cruise ship terminal facilities, upgrades to water, power, sewerage, sanitation, and communications facilities, and further strengthening of digital connectivity and tourism safety infrastructure.

The master plan envisions the construction of approximately 4,500 hotel and resort rooms across 22 properties, alongside marine and diving facilities, a precinct hub for cultural tourism and heritage, and the development of a PGA-standard 36-hole golf course.

“What we are proposing under the Kokopo Tourism Economic Zone Initiative is more than a tourism proposal; it is a foreign exchange engine, a jobs and skills development engine, a domestic industrial stimulus, and a diversification strategy for PNG,” Tuaim said.

He noted that tourism is one of the most powerful and proven economic multipliers available to island economies like PNG. Globally, tourism contributes approximately 10% of GDP, supports one in ten jobs, and remains one of the fastest-growing service export sectors.

He said Kokopo was the ideal platform for this initiative because of its proximity to Australia, the Pacific, and Southeast Asia; its active volcanoes and geothermal attractions; World War II sites; world-class marine and diving ecosystems; strong cultural heritage; and a stable provincial government environment.

MRDC has commenced exploratory discussions with the East New Britain Provincial Government, customary landowners, community leaders, and other key stakeholders to ensure that the Kokopo Tourism Economic Zone is developed through inclusive partnerships and aligned provincial planning.

He said Kokopo is geographically positioned to become PNG’s tourism gateway, a domestic aviation hub, and a model province for diversified growth.

“If we are to build a tourism economic zone anywhere in PNG, Kokopo is the logical starting point,” Tuaim said.

He added that under the plan, the K–TEZ is expected to attract 600,000 visitors annually, delivering US$1.2 billion per year. It is expected to create 10,000 jobs directly, another 25,000 jobs indirectly, strengthen the balance of payments and foreign exchange liquidity, and contribute to Kina stability. The initiative is projected to contribute 3–5% growth to the national GDP.

Air Niugini has signed a strategic technical training agreement with Singapore-based Institute of Technical Education Services on Feb. 3, strengthening workforce capability development as the national airline continues to modernise its operations.

The agreement was signed during the Singapore Airshow, marking a key milestone in Air Niugini’s ongoing commitment to operational excellence, skills development and long-term sustainability.

ITE Education Services, the international business arm of Singapore’s Institute of Technical Education, was established to share the country’s vocational education and training expertise globally. Under the agreement, ITEES will deliver specialised technical training programmes for Air Niugini, drawing on its extensive experience in aviation and technical education. The partnership may also include leadership and workforce planning programmes tailored to the airline’s operational needs.

The agreement was signed by Air Niugini Officer in Charge Capt. Samiu Taufa and ITEES Chief Executive Officer Suresh Natarajan, and witnessed by Air Niugini Board Chairman Karl Yalo, underscoring a shared commitment to collaboration and skills development.

Taufa said the partnership was particularly important as the airline introduces new-generation aircraft into its fleet.

“This collaboration with ITEES represents a significant investment in our people and our future,” he said. “As we introduce new-generation aircraft such as the Airbus A220, it is critical that our technical staff are equipped with the right skills, knowledge and global best practices to support safe, reliable and efficient operations.”

He added that partnerships of this nature are essential to the airline’s long-term sustainability and support its growth and transformation.

Yalo welcomed the agreement, saying it aligns with Air Niugini’s broader strategic direction.

“This partnership reflects the Board’s commitment to strengthening governance, technical capability and leadership across the organisation,” he said. “By investing in high-quality training and development, we are ensuring that Air Niugini remains competitive, resilient and well positioned to meet future challenges in the aviation industry.”

Natarajan said ITEES was pleased to support Air Niugini’s capability development journey.

“We are delighted to partner with Air Niugini and to share Singapore’s vocational and technical training expertise with the airline,” he said.

He also acknowledged Airbus for facilitating the partnership, which has enabled ITEES to extend its training and development programmes to support Air Niugini’s technical requirements.

Air Niugini’s new Airbus A220-300 aircraft are reshaping domestic air travel across Papua New Guinea, delivering improved reliability, comfort and capacity since entering service late last year.

The national carrier introduced its first A220-300 in September, followed by two additional aircraft in December. The three next-generation jets have quickly become popular with passengers and are playing a key role in strengthening connectivity across the country.

As holidaymakers, workers and students return to their homes and places of work and study at the start of the year, the A220 fleet has helped reunite families and communities, transporting passengers safely and comfortably across the domestic network. Air Niugini has branded the aircraft The People’s Balus, reflecting its role in linking communities nationwide.

Configured with 138 seats, the A220-300 provides increased capacity compared with the Fokker aircraft it complements and is progressively replacing. Passengers benefit from a wider cabin, larger windows, increased overhead luggage space and more comfortable seating, including Business Class, delivering a noticeably enhanced travel experience.

The A220s are currently operating on key domestic routes serving Port Moresby, Lae, Rabaul, Kavieng, Manus Island and Alotau. These services connect major population centres and regional hubs, supporting economic activity, access to education and health services, and vital social ties.

In addition to passenger comfort, the aircraft offers significant operational advantages. Its advanced technology and fuel efficiency support improved schedule reliability and performance, particularly on longer domestic sectors. The aircraft’s quieter operation and modern systems also align with Air Niugini’s investment in a safer, greener and more sustainable fleet.

As runway upgrade works progress at airports around the country, Air Niugini plans to deploy the A220 on additional domestic routes, including Mount Hagen, Wewak and Kimbe, further expanding access and connectivity.

The A220-300 is also set to operate selected regional services, including routes to Australia, once regulatory requirements are completed. The aircraft will initially service Cairns before debuting on the Port Moresby–Sydney route on March 29.

Services to Sydney currently operate twice a week. With the introduction of the A220, frequencies will increase to three flights a week from March 29. Departures from Port Moresby will operate on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, with return services the following mornings on Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays.

The introduction of the A220 fleet marks a significant milestone for Air Niugini and Papua New Guinea, ushering in a new era of improved comfort, capacity and reliability for travellers both domestically and across the region.

The National Airports Corporation (NAC) will temporarily open Tokua Airport in East New Britain Province to Airbus A220 aircraft operations and facilitate night flights at selected airports to ease congestion and support passenger movement during the peak festive travel period.

The measures are part of NAC’s strategy to boost air travel capacity during the busy season, with Tokua Airport now cleared to handle A220 jets on a concession basis starting December 16, 2025, to help airlines manage higher passenger demand.

In addition to Tokua, NAC has agreed to facilitate temporary night flight operations at Nadzab, Wewak, Momote and Kavieng airports, subject to advance coordination with airline operators. While night operations lie outside standard operating hours and require extra staffing and resources, NAC said the steps are necessary to reduce travel delays and improve passenger movement.

NAC acknowledged the inconvenience experienced by travellers and thanked airlines, airport partners, and the public for their patience and cooperation during the peak period, offering apologies to those affected.

NAC Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Dominic Kaumu, ML OBE, said the temporary adjustments aim to support both carriers and passengers during the holiday rush while maintaining safety and service standards. The expanded capacity at Tokua and additional flight windows are expected to ease pressure on conventional daytime slots.

The temporary night flight arrangements mark a rare extension of NAC’s operational hours, reflecting the high demand for domestic air travel during the festive season. Carriers interested in utilising night slots must provide advance notice to ensure proper staff scheduling and compliance with safety procedures.

The Nadzab Tomodachi International Airport, which serves Lae and the Morobe region, has been increasingly important to PNG’s aviation landscape since its inauguration in 2023, when it was redeveloped with international-standard facilities capable of handling expanded services.

Beyond peak-season measures, NAC continues to modernise its network of 22 national airports, aiming to deliver safe, efficient and integrated civil aviation services that support socioeconomic development across Papua New Guinea.

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) has officially sworn in its new Board members during a ceremony at Kwalimu Haus in Port Moresby, marking a key step in strengthening governance and oversight across the nation’s tourism sector.

The appointments complete TPA’s legal requirements under the TPA Act 1993, ensuring the Authority operates with proper governance and accountability.

The new Board includes ex-officio members such as the Chairman of the Permanent Parliamentary Committee on Tourism, the Head of the Department responsible for Finance and Planning, and the Chief Executive Officer of TPA. Other members represent key segments of the tourism industry, including tour operators, the national airline, hoteliers, tourism attractions, third-level airlines, banks and financial institutions, and the tourism industry association. This diverse composition is designed to ensure broad and balanced representation of the sector.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Belden Norman Namah, congratulated the new board members, describing their appointment as timely. “The board’s leadership is vital for building tourism infrastructure, strengthening community participation, and forging a sustainable public-private partnership framework for tourism development in PNG,” he said.

TPA’s Chief Executive Officer, Eric Mossman Uvovo, emphasised the significance of the swearing-in. “This is more than a procedural requirement. It marks a renewed commitment to stronger governance, effective policy implementation, and better collaboration across the tourism sector,” he said.

The newly constituted Board is expected to lead TPA in strengthening tourism governance and oversight, enhancing partnerships with provincial authorities and industry stakeholders, and supporting sustainable tourism development that benefits local communities and businesses.

It will also ensure that policies translate into real, positive outcomes for tourism operators, including SMEs, while promoting Papua New Guinea’s cultural and natural attractions globally.