Bombardier will deliver two Q400 NextGen high-speed turboprop airliners to Papua New Guinea’s Air Niugini airways.

The contract also includes options for an additional Q400 NextGen aircraft and is valued at $60m increasing to $92m if the option is exercised.

The Q400 is a turboprop airliner, powered by Pratt & Whitney PW150A engines, with a maximum cruise speed of 3,947shp. It can fly up to 78 passengers.

Air Niugini CEO Wasantha Kumarasiri said the aircraft’s ‘hot and high’ capability and its ability to operate on shorter runways were especially important for the route network, while its speed, fuel efficiency, low emissions and comfortable cabin were also key factors in its selection.

The new deliveries will add to the carrier’s current fleet of two Bombardier Dash 8-100 aircraft, three 36-seat Q200 and three 50-seat Q300 aircraft.

Air Niugini serves 23 domestic destinations and ten international routes in Asia, Oceania and Australia.