Air Niugini launches first A220 international flight to Cairns

Air Niugini has successfully operated its inaugural international commercial flight using its new Airbus A220-300 aircraft to Cairns, Australia, on Friday, March 27, 2026.

The one hour and 30-minute flight, PX090, was commanded by Captain Timothy Narara and Captain Joachim Ortlauf, supported by a three-member cabin crew.

Passengers departing Port Moresby were welcomed onboard with Air Niugini merchandise and a 12-pack of one of Papua New Guinea’s South Pacific beer varieties. They were also served a glass of champagne en route to Cairns.

Excited passengers on the maiden flight commended the new aircraft’s services, including cheaper airfares, increased cargo space, and in-flight Wi-Fi.

Among them was Jessie Vutia and her two children, who were travelling to live and work in Cairns. Ms Vutia said although she was sad to leave PNG, she was pleased the new aircraft would service the Port Moresby–Cairns route, allowing her and her children to return home when needed.

Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer Allan Milne, speaking to PNG and Australian media on arrival, said Cairns was chosen for the airline’s first international A220 service due to its strong historical, economic and tourism links with PNG and Far North Queensland.

Mr Milne said the airline is pleased to service the Port Moresby–Cairns route and plans to expand to Sydney and later Auckland, before moving into Asian destinations.

He added that services to Australia and New Zealand will also support travel for Papua New Guineans when PNG’s rugby league team, the PNG Chiefs, enters the Australian National Rugby League competition in 2028.

Meanwhile, Barron River MP and Australia’s Assistant Tourism Minister Bree James said the introduction of the aircraft will inject close to 65,000 seats into Cairns each year.

Ms James said the new service will strengthen regional connectivity and provide a more affordable option for Australians travelling to PNG or transiting through Port Moresby to Asia.

She added that Cairns welcomed the new service, saying it will bring economic benefits to local businesses.