The arrival of the new Air Niugini Airbus A220- 300 to Port Moresby city today on the eve of Independence Day, marks a milestone achievement for the country as well as the aviation history as Papua New Guinea (PNG) marks 50 years of independence.
Prime Minister James Marape was there this morning to receive the “People’s Balus” when it touched down at 10:30am and going through the traditional wash down- the water salute. He said the new airbus is a symbol of national pride and unity.
Speaking before a large crowd including Members of Parliament, members of the diplomatic corps, international partners, and Air Niugini staff, Prime Minister Marape said the aircraft’s arrival marked not only a milestone for the national airline but also a defining chapter in the country’s story.
“Today, we see not only a new plane, but a symbol of who we are as Papua New Guineans — resilient, determined, and capable of soaring higher,” PM Marape said.
He also took the opportunity to commend the State Enterprises Minister William Duma and the Board and management of Kumul Consolidated Holdings, Air Niugini Board Chairman Karl Yalo, the Board, management, and staff for steering the airline through the acquisition, and thanked partners Airbus, Azorra, and financial institutions including the Asian Development Bank for their support.
The Prime Minister later praised Captain Beverley Paki and Captain Timothy Narara who made history by flying the A220 into Jacksons International Airport.
On the eve of Independence Day, Prime Minister Marape urged Papua New Guineans to see the new A220 as a symbol of the country’s enduring spirit and potential.
“This aircraft is not just metal and engines. It is a story of perseverance, a reflection of our journey, and a promise to the next generation. Fifty years on, we remain one people, one nation, one country. Let this plane remind us that Papua New Guinea is ready to fly higher into the next fifty years,” he declared.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the service of generations of pilots, engineers, cabin crew, and ground staff who have kept the airline flying since 1973.
“Governments will come and go, but Air Niugini — like Papua New Guinea itself — will live on. May this new aircraft inspire every child in our nation to dream bigger, to reach higher, and to believe that nothing is beyond our reach.”