Australia’s Tiny Airline Sets Record with New Longest Airbus A220 Flights

Jordan Hartwell

ago 2 hours

Australia’s Tiny Airline Sets Record with New Longest Airbus A220 Flights

Air Niugini is poised to launch the longest Airbus A220 flights to and from Australia. Starting at the end of March, the Papua New Guinea flag carrier will operate flights between Port Moresby and Sydney. This new route marks a significant expansion for Air Niugini.

Details of the Longest Airbus A220 Route

According to Aero Routes, Air Niugini is set to commence its new service as part of the IATA Summer Schedule, which corresponds to winter in the Southern Hemisphere. The distance from Port Moresby to Sydney is 1,481 nautical miles, equivalent to 2,743 kilometers.

Air Niugini will increase its flight frequency between these two cities, going from two to three weekly round trips. Previously, the airline operated this route using Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Starting on March 29, flights using the new Airbus A220-300 jets will replace the Boeing aircraft.

Flight Schedule

Departures from Port Moresby: Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 1:10 PM.
Arrivals in Sydney: 5:05 PM on the same days.
Departures from Sydney: Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays at 7:45 AM.
Arrivals in Port Moresby: 11:45 AM on the same days.

Air Niugini’s Airbus A220 Fleet

Gary Seddon, Acting CEO of Air Niugini, highlighted the benefits of the new Airbus A220 aircraft, stating they will provide enhanced comfort while significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions compared to older models. Air Niugini’s order with Airbus includes six units of the A220-100 and five A220-300 aircraft, three of which have already been delivered.

The Airbus A220-300 will feature a two-class configuration, accommodating 138 passengers with eight business class seats and 130 economy seats.

Upcoming Competition from Qantas

In addition, Qantas is preparing to launch a new A220 route, nearly as long as Air Niugini’s service. This route will connect Brisbane to Wellington, covering a distance of 1,356 nautical miles (2,512 kilometers). Qantas operates 11 A220-300 jets and has plans for an additional 18 on order.

Both airlines will utilize these modern narrow-body aircraft to enhance connectivity in the region, marking a significant development in air travel between Australia and Papua New Guinea.