oceania
New Routes & Airline Expansions
United Airlines to Launch Adelaide–San Francisco Nonstop Service
United Airlines announced a new seasonal nonstop route between Adelaide and San Francisco, set to commence on December 11, 2025. This will be the first direct air connection between South Australia and North America, marking a significant milestone for Adelaide Airport. (Adelaide Airport)
Fiji Airways Introduces Cairns–Nadi Flights
Fiji Airways is set to launch direct flights between Cairns, Australia, and Nadi, Fiji, starting April 10, 2025. The route will be operated using Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, enhancing connectivity between the two regions. (Fiji Airways to Launch Cairns-Nadi Direct Flights in April 2025 – AviaExchange.com)
Qantas Resumes Sydney–Port Moresby Flights
Qantas has resumed direct flights between Sydney and Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, after a hiatus of over five decades. The service operates twice weekly using Boeing 737 aircraft, strengthening ties between Australia and PNG. (Pacific Islands aviation news April 2024)
Fleet Developments & Airline Strategies
Air Niugini Plans Major Fleet Upgrade
Air Niugini has outlined plans for a significant fleet renewal, including orders for Airbus A220-100 and A220-300 aircraft, as well as Boeing 787-8. Deliveries are expected to begin in the third quarter of 2025, aiming to modernize the airline’s operations. (Air Niugini)
Samoa Airways Considers Fleet Expansion
Samoa Airways is evaluating the acquisition of a 50-seat aircraft to replace its aging DHC-6-300 Twin Otters. The move aims to enhance regional connectivity to destinations such as Tonga, Fiji, and Tokelau. (Samoa Airways looks beyond Twin Otters; mulls 50-seater – ch-aviation)
Infrastructure & Airport Developments
Samoa Airport Authority Initiates Terminal Expansion
The Samoa Airport Authority has commenced construction on a new regional terminal and apron at Faleolo International Airport. The $25 million project is expected to bolster the country’s air transport infrastructure and support economic development. (Pacific Islands aviation news April 2024)
Newcastle Airport Terminal Upgrade Progresses
Newcastle Airport in New South Wales is undergoing a $55 million upgrade to its international terminal, aimed at accommodating larger aircraft capable of flying to Asia, the United States, and the Middle East. The expansion is slated for completion in early 2025. (Newcastle Airport (New South Wales))
Industry Trends & Forecasts
Pacific Region Anticipates Demand for 920 New Aircraft
According to Airbus’ Global Market Forecast, airlines in the Pacific region are expected to require approximately 920 new aircraft over the next 20 years. This demand is driven by an average annual passenger traffic growth of 3.2%, with a focus on single-aisle and widebody aircraft to support both growth and fleet replacement. (Pacific region to require 920 new aircraft over next 20 years | Business | POST Online Media)
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