Air Niugini in collaboration with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) is proudly showcasing Papua New Guinea at the National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (NATAS) Travel Fair.
Under the theme “A World Within Reach”, the three-day event is one of Asia’s leading travel exhibitions, providing an excellent platform to highlight PNG’s stunning natural beauty, cultural richness, and premium tourism offerings.
This year marks the second year Air Niugini and PNGTPA are participating in the NATAS Travel Fair scheduled from Friday, August 21 to Sunday, August 23 at the Singapore EXPO.
The official opening of the event was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by dignitaries and industry leaders. The ceremony was honored by His Excellency Kapi Tau Maro, High Commissioner of Papua New Guinea.
During his official remarks, His Excellency Kapi Tau Maro acknowledged NATAS for continuing to provide a vital platform for the global travel industry, showcasing Papua New Guinea’s tourism potential.
“The NATAS Travel Fair offers an excellent platform for our national airline, Air Niugini, in partnership with PNGTPA and tour operators to actively promote PNG as a destination. PNG’s rich cultural heritage and pristine environment are treasures we aim to share. These initiatives, rooted in 50 years of strong bilateral relations, positions PNG as a must-visit destination for travelers,” His Excellency Kapi Tau Maro said.
Air Niugini’s Chief Commercial Officer, Mr David Glover and Regional Manager Asia, Joshua Koh, joined fellow tourism representatives and partners in officially opening the three-day event.
Through the participation of leading PNG hoteliers and tour operators such as Kokopo Beach Bungalow and Karanas Comfort Tours, visitors are introduced to holiday packages tailored to showcase Papua New Guinea’s adventure, culture, and hospitality.
The event provides an invaluable platform to directly engage with the lucrative Southeast Asian travel market, build crucial relationships with international travel trade partners, and highlight the direct flight connectivity between Singapore and Port Moresby.
To truly capture the essence of Papua New Guinea’s famous “Million Different Journeys,” this year’s exhibition features live entertainment to highlight the country’s rich heritage.
Air Niugini and PNGTPA invited three performance groups from across the country to showcase their unique traditions.
They are the Paluai Sooksook Performers from Manus, the Kokopo Beach Bungalow String Band and the Kairuku Dance Troupe.
Air Niugini’s Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. David Glover, said participating in these events boosts PNG’s visibility in Asia, helping to form partnerships, increase bookings, and position Air Niugini as the preferred carrier between Singapore, Asia, and the Pacific.
In a drive to make PNG more accessible to the Asian market, Air Niugini and PNGTPA is offering exclusive tour packages specially curated for Asian travelers.
Regional Manager Asia, Joshua Koh said created in collaboration with several prominent local land operators, hoteliers, and corporate entities, the limited-time packages will bundle special Air Niugini airfares with tailored itineraries.
“Travelers will have the opportunity to easily book adventures that highlight PNG’s world-class scuba diving, birdwatching, cultural festivals, and pristine island escapes. Visitors are highly encouraged to visit the PNG booth to experience the spectacular live performances, learn about the unique destinations, and take advantage of these exclusive travel deals.”
The event features close to 100 exhibitors from travel agencies, national tourism organisations, airlines, cruise operators, hotels and resorts, banks, insurers and other travel-related businesses.
