Gary Seddon confirmed as Air Niugini CEO

Air Niugini is pleased to announce the permanent appointment of Gary Seddon as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

Mr. Seddon has been serving in an acting capacity. Following a comprehensive selection process conducted by the shareholder, Kumul Consolidated Holdings [KCH], he has now been confirmed by the National Executive Council [NEC] as the permanent CEO.

He was appointed after being considered exceptional in leadership and deeply committed to addressing the airline's challenges.

This includes the fleet replacement program with Airbus and Boeing aircraft, enhancement of Air Niugini’s route network, and a renewed focus on customer service excellence and his strategic vision.

The Chairman and Board of Directors are confident that under Seddon's leadership, Air Niugini will continue to strengthen its role as Papua New Guinea’s national carrier and deliver on its mission to connect our nation with the world.

Air Niugini Chairman Karl Yalo said this appointment will aid in accelerating the re-fleeting program to its successful completion, including the impending arrival of Airbus A220s next year, September, coinciding with PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

Meanwhile, Mr. Seddon is deeply honored to take on the role of Chief Executive Officer at Air Niugini, permanently and anticipates enhancing the airline’s offerings and improving operational performance.

“We have many challenges, but they are not impossible to overcome. I sincerely thank our valued customers for their patience and understanding and I am very appreciative of the dedicated team at Air Niugini who continue to keep us flying.”

Minister for State Enterprises, William Duma said the ministry he’s responsible for focuses on competent, reliable service delivery at affordable prices and Air Niugini is no exception.

“Mr. Seddon is charged with the responsibility of delivering against key performance indicators. He will continue to have the support of the government but must achieve these objectives, whilst providing a sustainable return on investment.

“The purchase of Airbus A220 aircraft and Boeing 787 Dreamliners is a game changer. This is a long overdue investment and will make Air Niugini the number one airline in the region,” Mr Duma said.