PoM-Cairns route vital, says QantasLink

QANTASLINK’s first international flight between Port Moresby and Cairns is a significant project for the airline with a total investment value of A$600 million (K1.4 billion) in 21 new Bombardier Q400 aircrafts, including 54 destination across Australia and 80 locations around the globe.
QantasLink executive director Narendra Kumar said the 12 weekly return POM-Cairns direct international flight were a huge investment in PNG in the 90-year history of Qantas operations.
“It is a significant investment because it will have a significant increase in the tourism sectors when Australian travellers choose the luxury and competitive fair QantasLink has to offer.
“Not only that the direct international flights would provide the opportunities for more Papua New Guineans to travel to Australia and vice versa.”
Kumar said there was a significant economic growth in PNG and the airlines had to realign its strategy.
When asked if the PNG LNG project might have an influence in the decision to open up the POM-Cairns direct flights, he replied: “That was not the point.”
“Qantas has a long history with PNG dating back in 1960s.
“We have always wanted to have the link maintained but it did not work out well and ceased some years back.
“It is part of QantasLink’s expansion strategy and will try to professionally and efficiently provide the competitive services and leave up to our customers taste and expectations.”
Qantas Airways regional general manager for Queensland and PNG Andrew Hogg said: “Our key focus is on schedules to maintain our integrity and also to build mutual relationships with customers and other stakeholders.”