Boeing can now add Papua New Guinea’s flag-carrying airline, Air Niugini to its list of over 85 customers for its 787-8 Dreamliner. The Pacific Island carrier has announced it is to purchase two of the long-haul aircraft in a bid to grow its network across Asia and Australasia.
Air Niugini will now be able to add new routes from the island which will not only boost capacity, but also help with inbound tourism on which the country is keen to promote.
“Signing this contract with Boeing for the purchase of two modern, wide-body 787 Dreamliners will enable Air Niugini to grow its network across Asia, Australia, and New Zealand and fulfil its mission as the premier airline in Papua New Guinea, providing the best air service in the region,” said Gary Seddon, acting CEO of Air Niugini.
Erika Pearson, Boeing vice president, Commercial Sales and Marketing, Southeast Asia and Oceania commented: “The excellent capability of the 787 allows Air Niugini to open Port Moresby to more destinations, increasing tourism and economic growth in the South Pacific region,” adding that: “The Dreamliner’s flexibility, outstanding efficiency and unmatched passenger comfort will enable Air Niugini to provide improved long-haul connectivity to the islands.”
Air Niugini was founded in 1973 and its hub is at Port Moresby International Airport. The carrier currently flies to 39 destinations, including 12 major airports on its domestic network, while its subsidiary airline, Link PNG covers routes to minor airports. The carrier operates a fleet of 20 aircraft, excluding this latest order, of Bombardier, Fokker and Boeing aircraft. Built with lightweight composite materials and powered by advanced engines, the 787 Dreamliner can fly up to 20% more passengers while reducing fuel use and emissions by 25% compared to the airplanes it replaces. The 787-8’s range reaches up to 13,530 km in a typical two-class configuration.
