Papua New Guinea's Air Niugini’s state-of-the-art Airbus A220 aircraft marked another milestone over the weekend with its first-ever commercial passenger flight to Kavieng in New Ireland Province. The aircraft, registered P2-PGA, touched down on Saturday, October 4, following its inaugural flight to Lae earlier that morning.
Upon arrival at Kavieng Airport, the aircraft was greeted with a traditional water salute — a symbolic gesture of celebration and welcome for this historic occasion. Passengers on board included the Minister for Treasury and Kavieng MP, Hon. Ian Ling-Stuckey, who joined the flight to witness the landmark event.
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| PNG's Air Niugini’s Airbus A220 Makes Historic First Passenger Flight to Kavieng [photo supplied] |
The arrival ceremony featured vibrant cultural performances, showcasing New Ireland’s unique traditions and hospitality. Local communities warmly welcomed the flight crew and passengers, celebrating Air Niugini’s new service that will enhance connectivity and boost economic activity in the province.
In a touching exchange, traditional mis necklaces and handwoven baskets were presented to the flight crew — Captain Timothy Narara of Air Niugini and Captain Christian Felix Pachalatko of Airbus — as tokens of appreciation and respect. The gesture reflected the deep cultural pride and warmth of the Kavieng people.
Minister Ling-Stuckey expressed gratitude to Air Niugini for expanding its A220 operations and commended the airline’s commitment to improving air services across the country. He also praised the people of New Ireland for their heartfelt welcome, describing the ceremony as a “true reflection of New Ireland’s spirit, tradition, and hospitality.”
The successful landing of the Airbus A220 in Kavieng marks a new chapter in domestic air travel for Papua New Guinea, offering passengers greater comfort, efficiency, and regional connection through Air Niugini’s growing modern fleet.
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