Air Niugini Welcomes Its First Airbus A220-300, Marking a New Era for Papua New Guinea

Air Niugini, the national carrier of Papua New Guinea, has officially joined the global community of Airbus A220 operators with the delivery of its first A220-300, leased from Azorra. This milestone positions the airline as the 25th worldwide operator of the A220, an aircraft already in service across five continents.

The aircraft – proudly named “People’s Balus” – departed Airbus’ Final Assembly Line in Mirabel, Canada, on its delivery journey to Port Moresby, making stopovers in Vancouver, Honolulu, and Fiji along the way.

A Centrepiece of Fleet Modernisation

This delivery is part of Air Niugini’s long-term fleet renewal programme, which includes eight A220-100s directly ordered from Airbus and three A220-300s leased from Azorra. The new aircraft, configured for 138 passengers, is expected to play a vital role in both domestic and regional operations, offering flexibility, fuel efficiency, and comfort.

Beyond technical advances, the delivery aircraft carries a special significance. Its livery, designed to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Papua New Guinea’s Independence, features 11 distinct colours meticulously applied by a dedicated Airbus team of 120 painters using a unique airbrushing technique.

Efficiency and Performance

The Airbus A220 has quickly gained traction in the small single-aisle market, combining 6,700 km of range with the lowest fuel burn in its class—25% less than older-generation aircraft. Built with 40% advanced materials and featuring optimised aerodynamics, the A220 delivers both weight savings and reduced drag.

Powered by Pratt & Whitney’s GTF™ engines, the aircraft achieves a 25% cut in CO₂ emissions per seat, while also being certified to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) today. Airbus aims to extend this to 100% SAF capability across its fleet by 2030.

A Growing Global Footprint

Since entering service, the A220 has become a key player in regional and international networks worldwide. By the end of August 2025:

• More than 940 orders had been placed by 30+ customers,

• Over 440 deliveries had been completed,

• The type was flying on 1,800+ routes to 480+ destinations.

With its arrival in Papua New Guinea, the A220 is set to provide Air Niugini with the tools to enhance efficiency, expand its network, and elevate the travel experience for its passengers.

This landmark delivery underscores the A220’s growing role in global aviation – and marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Air Niugini.

GALLERY