Air New Zealand has announced plans to order more aircraft as it views continued fleet renewal and expansion across its network.
The carrier has selected two Airbus A321neos on a long-term lease as it views high demand for Trans-Tasman services. The aircraft will arrive in 2024 and will be crucial to boosting weekly flights on its network.
Meanwhile, the airline has also announced that it’ll acquire two further ATR 72-600s as part of its more regional routes. However, similarly to the acquisition of further A321neos, the ATR will be essential in meeting soaring demand.
Flying continues to be in high demand, both here and around the world and it means prices have been higher than usual. The most effective thing we can do to help customers is to welcome more aircraft into our fleet and put more seats in the sky. While adding more seats is an important part of working to reduce prices, like all New Zealand businesses our costs continue to rise significantly in many areas, and the reality is that airfares are unlikely to return to pre-pandemic levels. Â
Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Greg ForanÂ
New Zealand was one of the strictest countries during the pandemic, which meant for Air New Zealand, international and, indeed, domestic travel was minimal. However, following the leasing restrictions, the airline has enjoyed a substantial return to tourism and citizens looking to depart for business or leisure.
Ultimately, though, the acquisition of new aircraft per the Chief Executive boosts their overall recovery and is another crucial step in the return of New Zealand as a global destination.
Air New Zealand adds that it’s back to pre-pandemic capacity domestically, with 425 flights to 20 destinations on average.
