The country’s consumer watchdog, the Independent Consumer and Competitions Commission (ICCC) has stated that Air Niugini increasing its domestic airfares is a bad idea that will only lead to more pain on the already struggling airline company. The ICCC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Commissioner, Mr. Paulus Ain in a statement said that the decision by Air Niugini to increase domestic airfares to cover cost and sustain its operations, is a misleading one and will see the airline losing more loyal clients and customers, resulting in the airline continuing to experience low revenue to sustain its operations. Air Niugini on Monday 15th July advised its valued customers that it was adjusting its domestic airfares effective on the day due to significant increase in the cost of fuel incurred in the last twelve months, and the substantial increased cost of airline supply chains both within the country and globally. According to the Air Niugini statement on Monday, passengers travelling on mid- range and full fare economic tickets will see increases between 15% and 25% with Business Class airfares also increasing. Mr. Ain said that under the current challenging economic environment, most people would not be travelling if the airfare is increased, which will see reduced volumes and revenues for the airline and decline in the operations of the airline. “Currently, our people do not have the purchasing power or disposable income to meet increase costs and they do not have the luxury of travelling unlike before,” said Mr. Ain. The ICCC is advising Air Niugini to reconsider its decision to increase the domestic airfares and look internally and identify cost- effective alternatives where it can utilize so to avoid losing customers.