PNG Air welcomes new ATR 72-600 ‘Wewak’ to its growing fleet

PNG Air Limited has officially welcomed the latest addition to its fleet, a brand-new 70-seat ATR 72-600 series aircraft.

Named Wewak, the aircraft touched down at Jacksons International Airport at approximately 4:10 PM yesterday. It marks the fourth aircraft to arrive in the last six months as part of the airline’s ambitious fleet renewal and modernization program.

The Wewak joins its sister aircraftin Lae, Kieta, and Vanimo, which have all entered service since October 2025. This refleeting strategy is designed to phase out the aging Dash 8 fleet, replacing them with the more fuel-efficient and technologically advanced ATR 72-600s.

The transition to a modern, single-type fleet is a core pillar of PNG Air’s three-year strategic plan. The airline reported that the arrival of these new aircraft has already significantly boosted operational performance, achieving an on-time performance rate of over 87% in January 2026.

The airline company says the ATR 72-600 is purpose-built for Papua New Guinea’s unique landscape, allowing them to serve remote communities with greater consistency and comfort.

The modernization of the fleet is far from over. Seven additional aircraft are expected to arrive later this year, bringing the airline closer to its goal of a fully modernized fleet.

The expanded capacity has already allowed PNG Air to reinstate services to hubs like Vanimo and Kavieng, launch new direct routes to Madang and Hoskins, and increase flight frequency across its network of 22 destinations.

With leather seating, a spacious 2+2 layout, and the widest cabin in the turboprop market, the new Wewak aircraft is set to provide a superior travel experience for passengers traveling for business, education, and family.