Air Niugini fleet upgrade crucial to PNG’s NRL push, Duma says

Air Niugini’s fleet renewal program is being positioned as a key pillar of Papua New Guinea’s preparation for entry into the National Rugby League in 2028, with State Enterprise Minister William Duma saying the national carrier will play a critical role in moving teams, fans and investment.

Welcoming the arrival of Air Niugini’s third Airbus A220 today, Duma said the aircraft would strengthen connectivity as PNG’s new NRL franchise, the PNG Chiefs, prepares to join the competition.

“This will be very important as our PNG Chiefs get ready to take the field in the 2028 NRL season,” Duma said.

“Papua New Guinea is the only country in the world where rugby league is truly the national sport, and it is only right that our national carrier is fully aligned with that reality.”

Duma said while wide-bodied aircraft would continue to operate core routes, the A220s give Air Niugini the flexibility to support major sporting events and rising demand for supporter travel.

“I can see a future where there is strong demand for dedicated supporter flights to away matches,” he said.

The minister also said Air Niugini’s consistency on near-international routes remains, even during challenging periods.

“There were times when flying to Sydney was not commercially viable, but we had to maintain those services so business could continue and families could be reunited,” he said.

“While competitors may come and go, Air Niugini has remained committed to these important markets.”

Looking ahead to the 2026 season, the State Enterprise minister said the airline was expected to carry record numbers of football fans, with the PNG Hunters scheduled to play nine away games in Queensland.

“Even before the Chiefs enter the NRL, our fans are already travelling to support their teams,” he said.

“With 27 NRL rounds, finals and State of Origin next year, there will be more opportunities than ever for supporters to fly to Brisbane, Sydney and Cairns.”