Air Niugini, the national airline of Papua New Guinea, has reinforced its commitment to fleet modernisation with a firm order for two additional Airbus A220-100 aircraft. The latest announcement, disclosed from Toulouse on 28 May 2025, brings the airline’s total A220 commitments to eleven, following an initial order for six A220-100s in 2023 and lease agreements for three A220-300s from US-based lessor Azorra.
The order coincides with a milestone moment for the airline, as its first A220 enters final assembly at Airbus facilities in Mirabel, Canada.
Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer, Gary Seddon, emphasised the strategic importance of the aircraft:
“The A220 is set to form the backbone of our domestic and regional fleet and will support economic development in Papua New Guinea. As we continue to forecast strong growth, we have made the decision to increase our orders for this fuel-efficient type, bringing a whole new level of efficiency and comfort to our operations.”
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales for Airbus Commercial Aircraft, echoed the sentiment:
“This is Air Niugini’s second order for the A220. We are committed to working closely with the airline as we support its fleet renewal programme. The A220 is quite simply the most efficient aircraft in its size category, with a wider and spacious cabin and the range to fly non-stop to any destination on the carrier’s network.”
The Airbus A220 is designed to serve the 100-160 seat market, with the A220-100 targeting the 100-135 seat range, and the A220-300 accommodating 120-160 seats, depending on cabin configuration. With a maximum range of up to 3,600 nautical miles (6,700 km), the type is ideally suited for both short- and medium-haul routes.
Powered by Pratt & Whitney’s latest-generation GTF™ engines, the A220 delivers a 25% reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions per seat compared to previous generation aircraft. Furthermore, it is already certified to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with Airbus aiming for 100% SAF capability across all its aircraft by 2030.
As of April 2025, Airbus had secured over 900 orders for the A220 from more than 30 customers. Over 410 aircraft have been delivered and are in successful service with 24 operators worldwide, collectively flying on more than 1,600 routes to over 470 destinations.
For Air Niugini, this investment signals a bold step forward—enhancing regional connectivity and reaffirming its role in driving economic progress through sustainable and modern aviation.
SOURCE AND IMAGE: AIRBUS
