Papua New Guinea’s national carrier, Air Niugini, has relaunched its operational improvement initiative under a revised programme titled the “Higher Altitude Program” as part of a broader corporate overhaul planned from mid-2026.

The airline stated that the programme will focus on improving service standards, operational reliability and cost control, while also involving workforce engagement through the National Airline Employees Association (NAEA).

Leadership changes planned

According to the airline, the relaunch will include “substantial changes” to senior leadership structures, with some adjustments already implemented and additional changes expected in the coming weeks.

The programme was reintroduced following the return of Alan Milne as chief executive officer in February 2026. Milne previously served as managing director of Air Niugini between 2018 and 2020.

Speaking during the relaunch, Milne said the initiative aims to align operations, service delivery, finance and workforce performance to support long-term sustainability for the airline.

FLEET MODERNISATION CONTINUES

Air Niugini is continuing its fleet modernisation programme following the introduction of its first Airbus A220-300 in September 2025. The aircraft type is expected to progressively replace the airline’s ageing Fokker 70 and Fokker 100 fleets.

The airline’s plans to replace its Boeing 767-300ER fleet remain unresolved after cancelling an earlier order for two Boeing 787-8 aircraft during 2026.

Current fleet data cited in the report indicates that Air Niugini operates Airbus A220-300s, Boeing 737-800s, Boeing 767-300ERs, multiple De Havilland Canada Dash 8 variants, Fokker 70 and Fokker 100 aircraft, as well as a Falcon 900EX EASy business jet.