Qantas Restores Sydney – Port Moresby Route Ahead of PNG’s NRL Entry
Qantas Brings Back Key Link Between Australia and Papua New Guinea
The airline announced the return of flights between Sydney and Port Moresby. The route supports growing demand as Papua New Guinea prepares to join Australia’s premier rugby league competition.
Flights will resume in March 2026 and operate twice per week on Boeing 737 aircraft. The service adds almost 35,000 seats each year and complements the airline’s daily Brisbane–Port Moresby flights.
Route Supports Rising Sporting, Leisure, and Business Travel
Qantas expects strong two-way travel as PNG prepares for its NRL debut in 2028. The airline said sporting events will drive traffic from teams, fans, and support crews.
The route also boosts business travel by offering a direct link from Sydney to Port Moresby. Travellers can connect easily to Qantas’ wider domestic network in Australia and New Zealand.
Leaders Welcome the Return of the Route
Qantas CEO International Cam Wallace said “Demand is rising as PNG expands preparations for its NRL entry.” He said “Early preparation work already generates travel between the two cities.” He expects travel to increase once the team begins playing matches across Australia.
Australia’s Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Matt Thistlethwaite, welcomed the route’s return. He said “The flights strengthen ties between both nations as PNG joins the NRL in 2028.”
Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton said “The service gives travellers more choice and convenience.” He said “The reinstated link supports tourism, business travel, and cultural exchange across the region.”
Route Details and Historical Background
The Sydney – Port Moresby route will operate year-round on Boeing 737 aircraft. Flights will run as QF203 and QF204 every Monday and Friday.
Qantas has maintained ties with Papua New Guinea since the 1940s. The airline stationed two light aircraft in Lae for early regional operations.
Qantas launched the Sydney–Port Moresby–Lae route with DC-4 Skymaster aircraft in 1950. Port Moresby later became a key refuelling stop for Qantas flights to Hong Kong in 1959.