Qantas has announced the launch of a new direct connection between Sydney and Port Moresby. The national carrier inaugurated its maiden service on 2 April, marking its first commercial passenger flight between the two cities in over five decades.
Operating twice a week, the new service will be facilitated by Qantas’ Boeing 737 aircraft, effectively adding over 36,000 seats annually to the route. This addition complements Qantas’ existing daily Brisbane-Port Moresby service, aiming to meet the increasing demand for travel between the two nations, particularly from the business community.
Cam Wallace, Qantas International CEO, underscored the significance of the new route in strengthening the longstanding ties between Australia and Papua New Guinea. “These flights will meet the growing demand from the business community for travel between Australia and Papua New Guinea,” Mr. Wallace said. He also highlighted the time-saving benefits of the Sydney service, estimating a reduction of at least three hours in travel time on a return trip by bypassing the previous stopover in Brisbane.
The launch of the Sydney-Port Moresby route is part of Qantas’ broader strategy to expand its international network out of Sydney and bolster business and trade relations between Australia and Papua New Guinea. Customers travelling between the two countries will enjoy seamless connections with Qantas’ domestic flight routes and international network, ensuring convenient travel options.
Fares for the new route are available for booking on qantas.com or through authorised travel agents. Additionally, Qantas customers and Frequent Flyers will have the opportunity to earn and redeem Qantas Points on these flights, while also enjoying premium services such as complimentary food and beverages, checked baggage allowance, and access to the airport lounge in Sydney.
Back in the day: Qantas Empire Airways in Port Moresby
Qantas commenced operations in Papua New Guinea in the 1940s, initially deploying two light aircraft stationed in Lae for local operations. The airline later introduced its four-engine DC4 Skymaster aircraft on the Sydney-Port Moresby-Lae route in 1950. In 1959, Port Moresby served as a refuelling point for Qantas flights to Hong Kong. The reintroduction of direct flights between Sydney and Port Moresby reflects a continuation of Qantas’ historical presence and commitment to facilitating connectivity between Australia and Papua New Guinea.
