Air Niugini’s, Acting CEO, Gary Seddon, has announced that the airline’s latest addition, the Boeing 737-800 Next Generation series aircraft, will serve both domestic and international routes. Seddon expressed immense pride in welcoming this aircraft to the Air Niugini family, highlighting its special retro livery as part of the ongoing 50th-anniversary celebrations.
The CEO said that the nine-year-old aircraft features both economy and business class seating, providing enhanced options for passengers. Acknowledging the collaborative effort, Seddon extended his gratitude to the project team, specifically mentioning Tiana Ila, the Air Niugini team, and the pilots, Captain Danny Vavar, Captain Barry Casupang, and First Officer Waita Kama. He also recognized the support of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority PNG, led by director Benedict Oraka.
Seddon had previously announced that Air Niugini expected to receive four Dash8-Q400 turboprop and two Boeing 737-800 aircraft in September. Underscoring the airline’s commitment to safety standards, he said that Air Niugini operates to one of the highest aviation and airworthiness standards globally. Seddon affirmed that the airline would not compromise on safety in its interim aircraft acquisition program.
Addressing concerns about the aging fleet, Seddon clarified that due to insufficient investment in maintenance, repair, and overhaul over the past decade, Air Niugini faced challenges operating more than 55 per cent of its aircraft on any given day. As a proactive measure, the airline is currently in negotiations with aircraft vendors in North America while simultaneously expediting heavy maintenance programs on its existing fleet.
The introduction of the Boeing 737-800 reflects Air Niugini’s dedication to enhancing its fleet, ensuring passenger comfort, and maintaining the highest safety standards in aviation.
