Air Niugini’s first A220 aircraft is expected to arrive next September, coinciding with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence anniversary. The A220, popular among airlines like Qantas, Air France, and Delta, can operate across PNG, replacing all current Fokker operations. To prepare, Air Niugini recently held its first town hall meeting to brief 115 staff on the new aircraft’s Entry into Service (EIS) and update them on recent developments. This initiative, led by CEO Gary Seddon and the Board, aims to ensure staff are informed, engaged, and committed to improving the airline’s performance as part of an ongoing transformation program. In his address, Mr. Seddon noted the project team is meeting all scheduled milestones, with some work ahead of schedule. While exciting, he emphasized the need for all employees to understand these changes, including expectations and possible challenges. Air Niugini will train and certify staff across all areas, ensuring they are ready to embrace this change. "It’s no longer business as usual, we have a great opportunity to improve air travel for our country." "We must look at all aspects of our business and take a proactive and assertive approach, to increase aircraft utilisation, to improve services, to deliver affordable, reliable travel.” Mr Seddon explained that new systems are already being implemented, with several current processes undergoing improvements. Training is underway for pilots, engineers, tech crew, cabin crew, and ground staff, preparing all teams for the A220 arrival. “Work has already started on implementing new systems while some of our current processes and procedures are being changed." "This also includes training for pilots, engineers, tech crew, cabin crew and ground staff in all areas of the business in readiness for the new aircraft - our Air Niugini people will benefit from this investment.” Staff also had the chance to ask the CEO and management about current issues, including regional fuel availability and strategies for staff retention.