By Air Niugini,postcourieronline
Copyright postcourier
The first Air Niugini Airbus A220-300 has departed the factory in Mirabel, Canada, and is anticipated to arrive at Jackson’s International Airport in Port Moresby on Monday, September 15. The aircraft has been named Independence.
Minister for State Enterprises, William Duma has confirmed the news, stating that comprehensive training programs for pilots, crew, and staff have been completed to ensure the highest standards.
“The Air Niugini Airbus A220 is in the air and on its way to serve the people of Papua New Guinea,” Minister Duma said.
“This is a tremendous milestone for the National flag carrier as we leave the past behind and, alongside 50th Independence celebrations, we move the airline into the future.”
The Minister highlighted the extensive training undertaken by Air Niugini personnel. “The training program has involved Air Niugini personnel that will operate and support the A220,” he said, noting that pilots, engineers, technical crew, flight crew, and ground staff have all received intensive training.
Duma called the Airbus A220 a “game-changer” for the aviation sector in PNG and the Pacific. He also noted that Air Niugini is working with the National Airports Corporation to ensure the new aircraft can service all airports currently accommodating the outgoing Fokker fleet, including Momote, Jackson’s, Nadzab, Kavieng, and Gurney. Work is underway to prepare additional airports like Tokua, Kagamuga, and Hoskins for the new fleet.
The Minister commended Prime Minister Hon. James Marape and Treasurer Hon. Ian Ling-Stuckey for their support of the re-fleeting program.
Minister Duma also noted that the modernization is part of a broader government strategy to address aging infrastructure across state-owned enterprises (SOEs). “After 50 years of service, a common challenge encountered across our SOEs are aging assets, infrastructure, while we are serving a rapidly growing population,” he said.
“This Government is committed to reshaping and repositioning our SOEs to serve our people for the next 50 years and beyond.”
A total of 11 Airbus A220 aircraft will be introduced as part of the re-fleeting program: three A220-300s and eight A220-100s. The A220-300 has a seating capacity of 138, including 8 Business Class seats and 130 Economy Class seats.
