Air Niugini achieved a significant milestone in its fleet modernisation program when its new Airbus A220-300 operated its first scheduled international service on Friday, 27 March 2026 from Port Moresby to Cairns, Australia, as flight PX 90.
Since the arrival of the first Airbus A220-300 in PNG in September 2025, the aircraft has operated exclusively on domestic routes to Lae, Kavieng, Manus, Gurney, Rabaul, and Port Moresby, improving efficiency, comfort, and reliability.
The Cairns service represents the first international deployment of the A220-300, marking a new chapter in Air Niugini’s fleet transformation and international network expansion. The Airbus A220-300 seats 138 passengers in a two-class configuration and provides wider seats, larger windows, a quieter cabin, and complimentary onboard Wi-Fi. The Cairns route takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, offering an efficient and convenient connection between PNG and Far North Queensland.
“The Airbus A220-300 is a modern, fuel-efficient aircraft that offers greater comfort, reliability and operational efficiency. Deploying this aircraft on our international routes strengthens Air Niugini’s capability to connect Papua New Guinea with key regional destinations while providing a world-class travel experience for our passengers.” – Mr Alan Milne, CEO
Cairns was a natural choice for the aircraft’s first international service given the strong historical, economic, and tourism links between Papua New Guinea and Far North Queensland. Air Niugini was the first international airline to operate into Cairns Airport in September 1975, and today operates nine flights per week between Port Moresby and Cairns, including three same-day return and six overnight services. The new Airbus A220-300 replaces older Fokker and Boeing 737 aircraft, offering improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and a superior onboard experience.
Cairns Airport welcomed the Airbus A220-300 on its first international service. “Cairns Airport is proud to welcome Air Niugini’s new Airbus A220-300 on its first international service… The introduction of this modern aircraft will inject close to 65,000 seats into the Cairns market each year and strengthen connectivity between our regions,” said Richard Barker, CEO, Cairns Airport.
Following the Cairns service launch, the Airbus A220-300 will operate its first service to Sydney on 29 March 2026, followed by Honiara in the Solomon Islands. The continued delivery of A220 aircraft will enhance Air Niugini’s domestic and regional operations and reinforce its position as Papua New Guinea’s national carrier.
