In a significant move for transpacific travel, Australian airline Qantas has confirmed it will reinstate regular flights between Sydney and Papua New Guinea's capital, Port Moresby. The decision is heavily influenced by the impending arrival of Papua New Guinea's own team in Australia's National Rugby League (NRL).
NRL Expansion Fuels Aviation Demand
The catalyst for this route revival is the NRL's historic expansion into Papua New Guinea. The new team, named the Chiefs, is set to join the competition at the start of the 2028 season and will be based in Port Moresby. Qantas anticipates a substantial surge in passenger demand linked to the team's establishment and match schedules.
Qantas CEO International, Cam Wallace, stated that growth in business travel is already evident as PNG prepares for its entry into the premier rugby league competition. "The preparation work alone is generating travel, and once the team starts playing and fans and teams are travelling for matches, we expect that to increase significantly," Wallace explained.
Flight Details and Historical Context
The airline plans to resume the service from March next year, operating two flights weekly. This schedule will provide approximately 35,000 seats annually on the route, which will be serviced by Boeing 737 aircraft. Qantas first began flying to Papua New Guinea in the 1940s, marking a long-standing connection with the country.
Rugby league enjoys a fervent, almost religious following in Papua New Guinea, making the introduction of a home team a major national event. The move is also designed to attract top playing talent, with a proposed tax exemption from the federal government for stars who sign with the Chiefs. NRL CEO Andrew Abdo has indicated this approval should be a formality.
Controversy and Club Leadership
The expansion has not been without debate. Earlier this year, Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V'landys faced criticism over the initial suggestion to name the team the 'Angels'. This term references the 'Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels', the name given by Australian soldiers to Papua New Guinean carriers who provided crucial aid during the World War II Kokoda Campaign. The Australian War Memorial has noted historical complexities surrounding the recognition of these carriers.
On the club front, PNG and Melbourne Storm premiership winner Justin Olam has expressed interest in joining the club's board. He would potentially sit alongside another national icon, Marcus Bai, forming a leadership group steeped in Kumuls legend.
The return of Qantas flights underscores the deep economic and cultural ties between Australia and its northern neighbour, now set to be strengthened further through the shared passion for rugby league.
