The Autonomous Bougainville Government has launched Bougainville Wings Limited, describing it as Bougainville’s flag carrier and a milestone for the region’s aviation sector.
President Ishmael Toroama officially launched the airline at Buka Airport yesterday.
Bougainville Wings is a joint venture between the ABG and Outback Aviation. The ABG holds a 70 per cent majority share through the Bougainville Public Investment Corporation Limited, while industry partners hold the remaining 30 per cent.
“The aviation industry in Bougainville has long awaited progress and we are looking forward to expand this significant beginning,” President Toroama said in his address.
He said his government was committed to ensuring the national carrier’s success.
“Under my leadership and the department of Commerce, Trade, Industry and Economic Development, we are committed to making sure that Bougainville Wings is well established and managed to bring revenue to the ABG government, as it is intended.”
The launch was attended by members of the ABG, Commerce, Trade, Industry and Economic Development Minister Hon. Robin Wilson, Bougainville Wings Limited Chairman Mr. Sylvester Kenatsi, the Secretary for the Department of Economic Development, and other invited guests.
Minister Wilson said the airline had moved from planning to operations after securing regulatory approval.
“We are no longer planning, we are operating. Bougainville Wings successfully secured its certificate of Airworthiness from CASA PNG on the 20th of December 2025,” he said.
Bougainville Wings is expected to play a key role in supporting the Bougainville 2052 Vision by improving connectivity across the region, particularly for remote and underserved communities such as Nissan, Buin, Torokina, and the Atolls.
The ABG said the launch marks a “humble yet significant beginning” for Bougainville’s aviation industry, with a focus on sustainability, growth, and expansion.
