Air Niugini proudly marked a new chapter in its history with the successful launch of its first commercial flight on the state-of-the-art Airbus A220-300, affectionately known as The People’s Balus, on Saturday 4th October 2025.
The inaugural flight—PX100—departed Jacksons Airport in Port Moresby, after 10am and flew to Lae, mirroring the airline’s historic first flight on 1st November 1973 aboard a DC-3. The A220 returned to Port Moresby before operating later in the afternoon to Kavieng and back. The event signals a significant milestone in Air Niugini’s comprehensive fleet transformation program and reflects the airline’s commitment to delivering modern, reliable, and efficient air travel for Papua New Guinea.
The A220-300, registered P2-PGA, was under the command of Air Niugini’s Captain Timothy Narara and Captain Christian Felix Patchlatko from Airbus.
To commemorate the occasion, a brief but symbolic cake and ribbon cutting ceremony was held at the domestic terminal in Port Moresby. The event was officiated by Deputy Prime Minister and Lae MP, Hon. John Rosso, and Minister for State-Owned Enterprises, Hon. William Duma.
In his remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Rosso said “This is a proud moment not only for Air Niugini but for the entire country. The Marape-Rosso Government remains committed to improving essential services for our people—including air services that connect our communities, support business, and promote national unity. This historic event comes at the perfect time as we celebrate 50 years of independence. Our people deserve reliable, timely, and safe air travel—and the introduction of this world-class aircraft is a step in the right direction.”
The Deputy Prime Minister also acknowledged that Lae was a fitting destination for the first flight, as one of Air Niugini’s busiest and most profitable domestic routes.
Minister Duma, echoed similar sentiments “The Government’s K3 billion investment in Air Niugini’s fleet renewal program underscores our commitment to modernising national infrastructure and delivering long-term value to the people of Papua New Guinea. The A220 is not just an aircraft—it is a symbol of progress and pride, rightfully called The People’s Balus. We are doing everything we can to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient travel for all Papua New Guineans.”
The aircraft received a warm welcome upon arrival in Lae, where Air Niugini staff, and the public gathered to witness the occasion. The People’s Balus returned to Port Moresby before operating to Kavieng, where it was honoured with a traditional water salute on arrival. Locals hosted a heartfelt cultural welcome, presenting flight crew with traditional mis necklaces and baskets in a show of appreciation for the new aircraft and the air service it will bring.
Treasury Minister and Kavieng MP, Hon. Ian Ling-Stuckey, was also onboard and extended his gratitude. He thanked Air Niugini for delivering a new aircraft and service to the province. The people of New Ireland warmly welcome the A220, and look forward to the improved connectivity and convenience this aircraft will bring.
The A220 is a game-changer for Air Niugini’s domestic and regional operations. Its advanced technology, superior fuel efficiency, and capability to operate on shorter runways make it perfectly suited to the challenging terrain and diverse conditions across PNG.
The first A220-300, P2-PGA arrived in Port Moresby on 15th September 2025—coinciding with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. It is the first of 11 A220 aircraft to be delivered as part of Air Niugini’s fleet modernisation program. Two more aircraft are expected before the end of the year.
The introduction of the A220 fleet will allow the airline to gradually phase out its aging Fokker aircraft, improving operational efficiency, reducing emissions, and enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers across PNG and the region.
This significant investment reaffirms Air Niugini’s commitment to sustainability, safety, service excellence, and strengthening Papua New Guinea’s air connectivity for decades to come.
