PNG Air Niugini Engineers Reach Historic Airbus A220 Certification

Papua New Guinea has recorded a milestone in aviation, with Air Niugini announcing that four of its engineers have become the first Papua New Guineans certified to work on the Airbus A220 aircraft.

The certification, issued by Civil Aviation Safety Authority of Papua New Guinea, formally recognises the engineers as Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (LAMEs) qualified on the A220, marking a first for the country’s aviation sector.

 PNG Air Niugini Engineers Reach Historic Airbus A220 Certification

The airline described the achievement as a major step forward in building local expertise, especially as it rolls out its new-generation aircraft under a fleet renewal program.

The licences were presented by senior CASA PNG officials, including the Deputy Director and Manager of Personnel Licensing, acknowledging both the engineers’ efforts and the airline’s training systems.

Chief Executive Officer Alan Milne said the achievement reflects the growing strength of national capability in aviation engineering.

“This is a proud and defining moment for Air Niugini and for Papua New Guinea. These four engineers represent the very best of our national talent,” Mr Milne said.

The engineers named as the first A220-certified Papua New Guineans are John Pidik, Henry Kaunger, Abraham Gena and Edward Polau, all senior specialists with multiple aircraft certifications.

Their training began in Port Moresby in January 2025 and extended overseas to Singapore and Mirabel in Canada, where they were exposed to Airbus production facilities and advanced technical programs.

The training also included simulator-based exercises, engine change procedures and attachments with Qantas Airways, followed by supervised practical work in PNG.

Mr Milne said having locally trained engineers would support safe and efficient operations as the airline expands its Airbus A220 fleet.

“Their achievement demonstrates that Papua New Guineans can meet and exceed global aviation standards,” he said.