Air Niugini to resume direct Port Moresby–Auckland services after 26 years

Air Niugini is set to re-establish direct flights connecting Port Moresby and Auckland, New Zealand, commencing November 17, 2026. This move marks the reintroduction of the first non-stop air service between Papua New Guinea and New Zealand in more than 26 years, promising to significantly shorten travel times.

The airline plans to operate three return services each week. This frequency will effectively halve travel durations for passengers and freight by eliminating the need for transit through Australia or other regional hubs. Initially, the route will be serviced by Air Niugini's Boeing 737-800 aircraft. However, this will transition next year to the airline's new Airbus A220 aircraft as more are delivered from the factory.

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The resumption of direct services to Auckland is a significant milestone for Air Niugini and for the people of Papua New Guinea and New Zealand. We are delighted to once again provide a direct link between our two countries, making travel faster, more convenient and more accessible for business travellers, tourists, students and families.

Both aircraft types are designed to offer a comfortable and reliable travel experience, complete with complimentary meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment. The resumption of direct services to Auckland is a key component of Air Niugini's network expansion strategy and aligns with its ongoing fleet renewal program. The introduction of the Airbus A220 fleet is enhancing the airline's operational capabilities, enabling increased domestic capacity and the restoration of vital international routes, while also catering to the growing demand for travel across the Pacific region.

Air Niugini CEO Alan Milne highlighted the significance of this route's return, stating it represents an important step in building the airline's international network and strengthening the relationship between Papua New Guinea and New Zealand. "We are delighted to once again provide a direct link between our two countries, making travel faster, more convenient and more accessible for business travellers, tourists, students and families," Milne said. The Auckland flights are strategically timed to connect seamlessly with Air Niugini's existing services to and from Hong Kong, Singapore, Manila, and Tokyo, reinforcing Papua New Guinea's role as a "Pacific Connector."

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The Auckland flights are timed to connect perfectly with existing Air Niugini services to and from Hong Kong, Singapore, Manila and Tokyo, further cementing Papua New Guinea’s position as a “Pacific Connector” between the Pacific and Asia.