Air Niugini has taken delivery of its first
Airbus A220-300, leased from
Azorra, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s ongoing fleet modernisation programme. The Papua New Guinea flag carrier becomes the 25th operator of the A220 worldwide, joining a growing number of airlines deploying the type across five continents.
The aircraft, named ‘People’s Balus’, departed Airbus’s final assembly line in Mirabel, Canada, and completed a multi-leg ferry flight to Port Moresby via Vancouver, Honolulu and Fiji. The delivery not only signals the start of a new operational chapter for Air Niugini but also reinforces its strategic commitment to upgrading its fleet with next-generation, fuel-efficient aircraft. In addition to the leased A220-300s, the airline has placed firm orders with Airbus for eight A220-100s.
To commemorate Papua New Guinea’s 50th year of independence, the aircraft features a bespoke livery designed and applied by a team of 120 Airbus painters. The scheme incorporates 11 colours, applied using advanced airbrushing techniques to reflect the country’s rich cultural identity.
The A220 continues to gain traction in the small single-aisle market, offering a range of up to 6,700km and delivering a 25% reduction in fuel burn compared to previous-generation aircraft. The A220-100 is optimised for the 100–135 seat segment, while the larger A220-300, in Air Niugini’s configuration, seats 138 passengers—making it well-suited to both regional and longer-haul routes.
Cornerstone of future fleet strategyAir Niugini has identified the A220 as the cornerstone of its future fleet strategy. “The A220 is a perfect fit for our network and long-term growth ambitions,” the airline said, citing the aircraft’s spacious cabin and fuel-efficient performance as key advantages.
Constructed using 40% advanced materials, the A220 benefits from a lighter airframe and refined aerodynamics, including a redesigned nose and tail cone to reduce drag. It also features the smallest fuselage wetted area in its class, contributing to its overall efficiency.
The aircraft is powered by Pratt & Whitney’s latest-generation GTF engines, which support a 25% reduction in carbon emissions per seat. Like all Airbus aircraft, the A220 is certified to operate with up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), with a target of 100% SAF capability by 2030.
As of the end of August 2025, Airbus had secured more than 940 orders for the A220 from over 30 customers, with more than 440 units delivered. The type is now operating on over 1,800 routes to more than 480 destinations globally, further cementing its position as a leader in the small single-aisle segment.