Cargo and passenger services between Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) are expected to rise over the next few years after the two countries agreed to a new air services agreement.
From June 3, the available cargo capacity to PNG increased by 30 per cent to 130 tonnes per week, while passenger capacity has increased by 10 per cent to 3520 seats per week.
“These new arrangements will allow airlines in both countries to capitalise on growing passenger demand and business opportunities, particularly in resources and oil and gas exploration in the region,” said Transport Minister Anthony Albanese.
Traffic between Australia and PNG has been on the rise recently, with much of it linked to the growing resources industry in PNG. QantasLink plans to commence 12 weekly services between Cairns and Port Moresby from July 1 with Bombardier Q400s.
