US aircraft manufacturer Boeing and Papua New Guinea flag carrier Air Niugini this week announced an order for two fuel-efficient 787-8 Dreamliners to support the growth of the airline’s long-haul fleet.
The jets will enable the Port Moresby-based airline to fly new routes from the Pacific island nation and boost capacity for inbound tourism.
Air Niugini currently flies 767-300ERs and a single 737-800, including to Sydney, Melbourne, Hong Kong, Singapore and Tokyo.
The airline’s 767-300ERs are almost 30 years old and need replacement. Air Niugini currently offers a rather unconventional 2-1-2 configuration on its 767 long-haul flights.
The Papua New Guinea flag carrier had previously signed an order with Boeing for four 737 Max aircraft to renew and expand its regional fleet but this week’s communications no longer mentioned the 737 Max.
Local media in the country is reporting that instead of the 737 Max Air Niugini is currently talking to lessors about additional 737-800 aircraft while also evaluating Airbus A220 and Embraer E2 regional jets.
“Signing this contract with Boeing for the purchase of two modern, widebody 787 Dreamliners will enable Air Niugini to grow its network across Asia, Australia, and New Zealand and fulfill its mission as the premier airline in Papua New Guinea, providing the best air service in the region,” said Gary Seddon, acting CEO of Air Niugini.
More than 85 global airlines have placed orders for more than 1,600 Dreamliner aircraft. Current 787 output, however, is heavily delayed owing to quality deficiencies, which is also affecting British Airways.
Faced with a 787 shortage this summer, British Airways is reportedly looking at leasing aircraft from other airlines to operate some of its routes, including from London to Chicago.
