Air Niugini has taken delivery of its first A220-300, leased from Azorra, becoming the 25th global operator of the type. The aircraft, named “People’s Balus” and painted in a special 50th Independence Anniversary livery, departed Airbus’ Mirabel assembly line for Port Moresby with stops in Vancouver, Honolulu, and Fiji.
The delivery marks a major step in the airline’s fleet renewal programme, which includes eight A220-100s on order with Airbus and three A220-300s on lease. Configured for 138 passengers, the A220 will serve as the backbone of Air Niugini’s regional and international network, offering 25% lower fuel burn and emissions, long-range capability, and improved passenger comfort.
The A220 programme continues to grow, with over 940 orders and 440 deliveries worldwide, flying more than 1,800 routes to 480+ destinations.