Qantas to Resume Sydney-Port Moresby Flights Starting March 2026
Qantas has revealed plans to reinstate direct flights between Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) and Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby (POM), set to commence in March 2026. This service resumption aligns with Papua New Guinea’s preparations to enter Australia’s top rugby league competition.
The new service will run twice weekly on Boeing 737 aircraft, adding nearly 35,000 annual seats to flights serving Papua New Guinea. It will also complement the existing daily Qantas flights from Brisbane Airport (BNE) to Port Moresby.
Qantas is reintroducing this route in anticipation of increased demand fueled by PNG’s participation in the National Rugby League starting in 2028, alongside the ongoing growth in both business and leisure travel between the two countries.
Earlier this year, Qantas temporarily suspended flights between Sydney and Port Moresby.
Building Momentum Ahead of NRL Debut
Qantas believes that the direct connection to Sydney will simplify travel for sports enthusiasts, business professionals, and tourists alike. It also provides seamless links to Qantas’ extensive domestic routes throughout Australia and New Zealand.
“We’re noticing a rise in business travel between Sydney and Port Moresby, which is expected to grow as Papua New Guinea prepares for participation in the National Rugby League in 2028,” stated Cam Wallace, Qantas CEO International.
Wallace mentioned that the preparatory work is already generating travel, and he anticipates even higher demand once matches begin. “The influx of fans and teams traveling for games will likely lead to a significant increase in bookings,” he added.
He further emphasized that the renewed service enhances travel options. “When combined with our daily Brisbane service, travelers have excellent access to Australia’s two largest cities and our extensive network,” he noted.
Government and Industry Welcome
The announcement has received positive feedback from the Australian government, which sees it as a means to strengthen bilateral relations.
“The Australian Government welcomes Qantas’ decision to reconnect Sydney and Port Moresby, enhancing the bonds between our countries as PNG gears up for the NRL in 2028,” stated The Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs. “These new flights will facilitate easier travel for fans, families, businesses, and students, fostering shared experiences and support for PNG’s NRL team at home and away.”
Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton called this route’s return beneficial for travelers and the community at large. “Qantas’ re-establishment of the Sydney–Port Moresby link is fantastic news for passengers and the wider community,” Charlton remarked. “This connection enhances travel options and strengthens the essential economic and cultural ties between Australia and Papua New Guinea.”
Route History
The Sydney-Port Moresby service will function year-round as QF203/204 on Mondays and Fridays.
Qantas has maintained a long-standing relationship with Papua New Guinea, having initiated flights to the region in the 1940s with two light aircraft stationed in Lae for local operations. In 1950, the airline’s four-engine DC4 Skymaster began services on the Sydney-Port Moresby-Lae route. By 1959, Port Moresby was utilized as a refueling location for Qantas flights to Hong Kong.
What are your thoughts on Qantas’ return to the Sydney-Port Moresby route?