Air Niugini secures $35.8 million loan to pay for A220s

By Andrew Curran.

Air Niugini has secured a USD35.8 million loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to help pay for six A220-100s ordered by the airline. The bank publicised the signing on December 9, 2025.

The financing package includes a USD19 million loan from bank’s capital resources and a USD16.8 million loan administered by the bank from the Leading Asia’s Private Sector Infrastructure Fund 2. The USD1.5 billion Japan International Cooperation Agency-backed fund focuses on sustainable private-sector infrastructure projects.

“By supporting Air Niugini’s fleet renewal, we aim to improve the country’s connectivity, boost economic growth, and enhance air travel safety in the Pacific region,” said the bank’s Papua New Guinea country director, Soon Chan Hong.

Air Niugini has eight A220-100s on order. It is also leasing three slightly larger A220-300s from Florida-based lessor Azzora. The first A220-300 is already in service, and the second is currently completing its delivery flight. The remaining deliveries are expected over the next two to three years.

The aircraft will progressively replace Air Niugini’s Fokker jets and will also take over some frequencies currently operated by B737-800s.

Air Niugini also has two B787-8s on order. They are due for delivery in 2027 and will replace the airline’s pair of leased B767-300s.

Photo: Air Niugini.