PM Marape Hails Major Fleet Upgrade for Air Niugini, Boosting Papua New Guinea's Connectivity

PM Marape Hails Major Fleet Upgrade for Air Niugini, Boosting Papua New Guinea's Connectivity

Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, James Marape, has lauded State Enterprises Minister William Duma for his leadership in securing new aircraft for Air Niugini, marking the airline's most significant fleet acquisition since the 1970s. This milestone is set to enhance Papua New Guinea’s connectivity and strengthen its position as a key player in regional aviation.

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During a meeting held yesterday with Minister Duma, Air Niugini CEO Gary Seddon, Kumul Consolidated Holdings Limited (KCHL) Managing Director Prof David Kavanamur, and executives from State-owned Enterprises, the airline presented its ambitious K5 billion transformation strategy. According to Seddon, Air Niugini is embarking on its largest capital investment phase, with plans to introduce 13 new aircraft between 2025 and 2028. The first of these, three Airbus A220s, are scheduled to arrive in September.

Prime Minister Marape described the acquisition as a “significant milestone,” underscoring the government’s commitment to bolstering key national assets and enhancing connectivity for the people of Papua New Guinea. He emphasized that the new fleet would not only improve service reliability but also stimulate tourism and foster trade opportunities within the country and beyond.

“This investment in Air Niugini is an investment in our future,” Marape stated. “We are ensuring that our national carrier remains competitive and continues to serve our nation effectively.”

He added that the modernized fleet would greatly enhance connectivity and service delivery across Papua New Guinea. To support this initiative, the government pledged to upgrade airport infrastructure and expand pilot training programs, thereby securing the long-term sustainability of Air Niugini.

The Prime Minister reiterated the government’s full backing for the project, highlighting its potential to transform the aviation landscape and contribute to the economic growth of Papua New Guinea.

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