For many families, a holiday is more than just a break from everyday life. It is an opportunity to explore new cultures, experience different ways of living, and create lifelong memories together.

For Port Moresby resident Paul Aita, that dream became a reality when he, his wife Ruth, and their three children, Julianne, Shama and Shevisha, boarded Air Niugini’s recently reinstated non-stop flight from Port Moresby to Tokyo on Saturday, 18 July, for a week-long family holiday in Japan.

After learning that Air Niugini had resumed direct services between Port Moresby and Tokyo following a six-year hiatus, Mr Aita saw the perfect opportunity to finally take his family overseas.

“I heard Air Niugini was flying directly to Tokyo again and immediately knew this was the right time to take my family on a holiday,” he said.

“I’ve always believed that travelling is one of the greatest gifts you can give your children. It broadens their horizons, introduces them to new cultures and shows them that the world is much bigger than what they experience every day.

“For our children, this was more than just a holiday. They experienced a completely different environment—from Japan’s advanced technology and efficient public transport systems to its rich history, unique traditions, beautiful scenery and delicious cuisine. They also experienced a different climate and see how another country lives and works. These are lessons that cannot be learned from books alone.”

“Most importantly, we spent quality time together as a family. Those shared experiences and memories are something we will treasure forever.”

Mr Aita said organising the trip was simple with the assistance of Air Niugini Tours.

The family’s itinerary was tailored to suit their interests and budget including visits to the Shinjuku Love Statue, included in the Full Day Sightseeing Bus Tour in Tokyo, the iconic Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest peak and one of the country’s most treasured national symbols, drawing millions of visitors from around the world each year. The family went on sightseeing tours around Tokyo, exploring its vibrant cityscape, cultural landmarks, and other renowned attractions.

“The Air Niugini Tours team took care of everything—from our flights and accommodation to tours and transfers. Having everything organised in one package made planning easy, saved us money and allowed us to simply enjoy our holiday.”

Sharing her experience, Mr Aita’s eldest daughter Shama said the trip had inspired her to learn more about the world.

“It was such an amazing experience to see a completely different climate and culture. It opened my eyes to just how diverse and fascinating the world really is and appreciate how unique every part of the world can be. “

Planning an overseas holiday can often seem overwhelming, but Mr Aita said Air Niugini Tours made the entire process simple and stress-free.

Air Niugini Tours is the airline’s dedicated travel and holiday division, providing complete travel solutions for individuals, families, corporate travellers and groups.

The team designs customised holiday packages that combine international and domestic airfares, accommodation, airport transfers, sightseeing tours, travel insurance, cruises and other travel experiences into convenient, value-for-money packages.

Whether customers are planning a family holiday, school excursion, sporting tour or business trip, Air Niugini Tours provides personalised advice and professionally organised itineraries, making travel easier and more affordable for Papua New Guineans.

With Air Niugini continuing to expand its international network—including the recent return of direct services to Tokyo and the planned resumption of direct flights to Auckland later this year—the opportunities for Papua New Guineans to explore the world have never been greater.

Air Niugini Chief Commercial Officer, Mr David Glover said travel creates lifelong memories while bringing people and cultures closer together.

“Our Air Niugini Tours team is there to help people explore the world. Whether it’s Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Singapore, Hong Kong, the Philippines or destinations beyond our network, we can create complete holiday packages to suit a range of budgets and travel preferences.

“Customers simply tell us where they want to go and when they would like to travel, and we’ll take care of the rest—from flights and accommodation to tours and the finer details—giving them complete peace of mind.”

Originally from Irowari Village in Ialibu, Southern Highlands Province, Mr Aita encouraged other families to consider travelling together whenever the opportunity arises.

“It’s not just about visiting another country. It’s about creating experiences your children will remember for the rest of their lives. Those memories are truly priceless.”

As Air Niugini continues reconnecting Papua New Guinea with more international destinations, the airline and Air Niugini Tours remain committed to making overseas travel more accessible, affordable and memorable for Papua New Guinean families.