Air Niugini confirms plans to offer service between Japan and the Federated States of Micronesia

Air Niugini announced (30-May-2018) plans to launch twice weekly direct air services between Tokyo Narita and Chuuk in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), effective 01-Sep-2018. The route will be operated with a mix of 126-seat Boeing 737-700 and 144-seat 737-800 equipment. Air Niugini stated the route has been made possible by the signing of an new air services agreement, signed on 18/19-May-2018 between Japan, the FSM and Papua New Guinea. The agreement gives Air Niugini rights to operate between Tokyo Narita and Chuuk via Port Moresby. Air Niugini acting CEO Tahawar Durrani said since the introduction of weekly Port Moresby-Chuuk-Pohnpei service 18 months ago, there has been an increase in the number of Japanese and Australian tourists and divers, as well as business travellers on the route. Mr Durrani added that a market analysis was carried out which confirmed that further growth on the Japan route could be achieved by including a stopover at FSM. The expansion will allow PNG and FMS to be marketed to travellers not only from Japan but also from North America and Europe. The carrier's existing Port Moresby-Chuuk-Pohnpei service will continue to operate. [more - original PR - Air Niugini] [more - original PR - Tokyo Narita]