Over the next four years, Air Niugini will undertake a substantial capital investment programme, one that is both ambitious in scope and vital to the mission of delivering safe, reliable and affordable air transport.
Air Niugini chief executive officer Gary Seddon told The National that the programme needed to be understood in the context of the unique challenges the airline faced in operating in the region, as well as the transformative potential of re-fleeting with better aircraft.
“Our aircraft financing is on track and we are adopting innovative aviation financing packages supported by export credit agencies from Australia, the United Kingdom and USA,” he said.
“We also have support from Asian Development Bank.
“We are committed to acquiring new, more fuel-efficient Airbus A220 and the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which will replace our older aircraft.
“These aircraft are not just new additions to our fleet; they represent a transformative step forward in how we operate, serve our passengers, and compete in the regional aviation market.”
Seddon said the Airbus A220 was specifically designed for efficiency, comfort and performance on regional routes.
“For Air Niugini, the A220 is more than just a replacement for older, less efficient aircraft, it is a game-changer that will redefine our regional operations across PNG and the broader Pacific region.”