Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer, Mr Alan Milne, today outlined the airline’s ambitious growth and transformation agenda while addressing members of the Port Moresby Chamber of Commerce and Industry (POMCCI) during its breakfast meeting in Port Moresby.

The well-attended business event brought together leaders from the private sector, government agencies, development partners and the wider business community, providing a valuable platform for dialogue on issues impacting Papua New Guinea’s economy and key industries.

Addressing the leaders, Mr Milne said Air Niugini is undergoing one of the most significant transformation periods in its history through a combination of fleet modernisation, operational improvements, enhanced customer experience initiatives and investment in people.

” Our growth ambitions are strong, and building a successful airline requires both modern aircraft and skilled people. Neither can succeed without the other. While we continue to invest in our fleet, we are equally committed to investing in our pilots, engineers and frontline staff to ensure we have the capability, expertise and service culture required to support our expansion and meet our customers’ expectations.”

A key focus of the presentation was Air Niugini’s re-fleeting programme, centred on the introduction of the Airbus A220 aircraft. Mr Milne said three A220 aircraft have been delivered to date, with the fleet already operating scheduled revenue services across the airline’s network, providing passengers with a more efficient, comfortable and reliable travel experience

He highlighted the aircraft’s versatility, noting its ability to serve six domestic destinations while also supporting the airline’s growing international network. Mr Milne said the A220 is currently operating services to Cairns and Sydney and will have the capability of supplementing services to Brisbane, Tokyo and Auckland.

“The A220 is a game-changing aircraft for Air Niugini. It offers improved fuel efficiency, enhanced passenger comfort, greater operational flexibility and lower operating costs. It provides us with a modern platform that supports our future growth aspirations while improving the overall travelling experience for our customers,” Mr Milne said.

The CEO also provided an update on pilot development, engineering capability and workforce readiness to support the new aircraft programme. He acknowledged that airline growth is currently outpacing the availability of qualified aviation personnel.

“Air Niugini is growing faster than the pilots and technical workforce required to operate these new-generation aircraft. We require approximately 100 pilots as part of our future growth plans and are investing heavily in training and development to build a sustainable pipeline of local aviation professionals,” he said.

To support the transition, Air Niugini has partnered with Latvian carrier airBaltik, which will provide 44 experienced pilots to assist with A220 operations from next year while the airline continues developing its own pilot workforce.

Mr Milne also outlined progress under Air Niugini’s Higher Altitude Programme, which focuses on cost discipline, productivity improvements, lowering controllable costs and strengthening operational performance across the business.

Complementing this initiative is the airline’s Customer Experience Transformation Programme, which is delivering improvements across customer service, revenue opportunities, cash management, operational reliability and staff capability.

Among the changes already implemented are redesigned onboard dining experiences featuring expanded meal choices, modern menu presentations and greater use of Papua New Guinean ingredients. Aircraft cleanliness standards have also been enhanced through new equipment, improved procedures, structured training and regular audit programmes.

The transformation programme further includes upgrades to digital platforms and in-flight entertainment systems, as well as new e-learning and capability-building tools for staff. Central to these efforts is the introduction of PASIN – Respect & Care for All – a service philosophy designed to strengthen customer service culture and deliver a more consistent customer experience across the airline.

“We are transforming the customer experience across every touchpoint of the journey, from our digital platforms and airport services to onboard dining and inflight entertainment. Our goal is simple: to provide a service that Papua New Guineans are proud of and that visitors remember for the right reasons.” Mr Milne said

The presentation generated strong interest from attendees, with extensive engagement during the question-and-answer session. Participants raised a range of questions on fleet renewal, route development, workforce planning, aviation infrastructure and customer service enhancements.

POMCCI breakfast events continue to serve as an important forum for business leaders and industry stakeholders to discuss opportunities, challenges and developments shaping Papua New Guinea’s economic future. Today’s session provided attendees with valuable insight into Air Niugini’s transformation journey and the investments being made to strengthen the national airline for the years ahead.