News
Air Niugini restricted to 18 passengers per flight out of Mt Hagen due to runway works
September 29th 2026
Air Niugini has been forced to operate its De Havilland Dash 8-200 turboprop to and from Mt Hagen with capacity for only 18 passengers amid ongoing runway maintenance at Kagamuga Airport. Read More » The current status of the maintenance works had "further shortened" the airport’s only available runway for aircraft operations until October 5. Air Niugini said the capacity restriction of 18 passengers for all services into and out of Mt Hagen was necessary to ensure flights remained in compliance with regulator guidelines, the manufacturer’s approved safety margins and aircraft performance capabilities. The airline said its larger Dash 8-300 aircraft was expected to be cleared to replace the Dash 8-200 from October 6, when the runway works entered a new stage of the project. Air Niugini has added more flights into and out of nearby Goroka or Lae to support connectivity to the local communities in the area. "Air Niugini remains committed to maintaining connectivity for the people of Mt Hagen and the wider Highlands region while these essential runway upgrade works are being undertaken, and in strict compliance with all safety requirements," Air Niugini said. "Safety remains our highest priority and will never be compromised. We appreciate the patience, understanding and cooperation of our customers during this time as these important infrastructure improvements are completed."
