Air New Zealand Chief Transformation and Alliances Officer, Michael Williams, says seeing the first service operate reflects the airline's commitment to supporting regional connections.
"Collaborating with partners like Air Chathams makes it easier for customers to travel across our country and strengthens local economies and regional tourism. By improving connectivity, we are creating smoother journeys and delivering more choice for communities in places we can't fly to ourselves.
"While today's flight is an important first step, there is more to come, and both airlines are looking forward to continuing our work together on further interline connectivity in other regions."
Gillian and Des Connor, travelling from Whakatāne to Queenstown this morning, were among the first to experience the partnership in action, connecting onwards on a single ticket with their bags checked through to Queenstown.
"This makes travelling from Whakatāne incredibly easy. Being able to book it all on one ticket and know our bags will be waiting for us in Queenstown takes the stress out of the journey. It feels like our region is more connected than ever."
Air Chathams CEO Duane Emeny says the milestone reflects a shared focus on delivering for regional communities.
"The regions are at the heart of what we do. This partnership connects Whakatāne more directly into the national network and gives our customers simpler access to the rest of New Zealand."
Associate Transport Minister, Hon James Meager says improved regional connectivity delivers tangible benefits.
"Regional air services play a critical role in supporting tourism and trade and connecting smaller communities. Interlining agreements have the potential to be a true gamechanger for the industry. By simplifying travel and improving access, Air New Zealand and Air Chathams are supporting opportunities for communities well beyond a single route."
Building on the launch of the Whakatāne connection, both airlines are now working through the next stages of interline connectivity.
Update Comment