Air New Zealand has unveiled some key changes to its network for the upcoming summer season.
This includes the return of popular routes, increased capacity on key Asian destinations, and an update on the Chicago service.
The airline will return to Hobart and Seoul in October 2024 after both were paused over the New Zealand winter period.
Returning Routes for Summer 2024
- Hobart and Seoul:
Air New Zealand will resume seasonal flights to Hobart and Seoul starting October 2024. These routes will operate three times a week during the summer months (October to March) with comfortable direct connections from Auckland.
- Enhanced Asian Travel:
Get ready for more legroom and premium options! Air New Zealand is boosting capacity on flights to Singapore, Tokyo, and Taipei from November 2024 to March 2025.
This expansion coincides with the introduction of their larger Boeing 777-300 aircraft on these routes.
The new planes offer a significant increase in Business Premier and Premium Economy seats, providing a more comfortable travel experience for passengers seeking extra space.
- Cargo Capacity Boost:
Businesses looking to export goods to Asia will benefit from the increased cargo capacity of the new 777-300s. These planes offer 30% more cargo space compared to the previously used 787 aircraft.
Chicago Service Update
While Air New Zealand is making strides to expand its network, unforeseen circumstances require an adjustment to the previously announced Chicago service resumption.
Due to ongoing engine availability limitations, the Chicago route, originally planned to restart in October 2024, will experience a delay.
Air New Zealand is committed to minimizing disruption for passengers. Their teams will be proactively contacting customers with bookings on the Chicago route from October onwards to discuss options.
Passengers who booked through a travel agent can confirm itinerary changes directly with their agent.
Looking Ahead
Air New Zealand anticipates resuming Chicago flights when they receive their new 787 aircraft deliveries from Boeing, expected in the second half of 2025.
In the meantime, alternative travel options with stopovers in other US destinations are available.
“We understand the delay to the Chicago service may be disappointing,” says Scott Carr, Air New Zealand General Manager Long Haul.
“However, these schedule changes allow us to prioritize key destinations within our network and ensure a smooth travel experience for our customers on other routes.”
Air New Zealand remains dedicated to connecting New Zealand to the world, and these adjustments will further strengthen their global network.
Additional Capacity November 2024 – March 2025
- Tokyo: Gaining 30,000 additional seats, primarily in Business Premier and Premium Economy.
- Singapore: Capacity will increase by 20,000 seats, with 11,000 allocated to Business Premier and Premium Economy.
- Taipei: Enjoy an extra 5,000 seats specifically in Business Premier and Premium Economy.
About Air New Zealand
Air New Zealand’s story started in 1940, first taking to the skies between Auckland and Sydney on a flying boat – a Short S30.
Known for its warm Kiwi hospitality, today, the airline has 104 operating aircraft ranging from Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and Airbus A320s to ATRs and Q300s, offering customers comfort in the latest most efficient jets and turboprops.
It’s a modern fuel-efficient fleet with an average age of 7.3 years. Air New Zealand’s global network of passenger and cargo services centres around New Zealand.
Air New Zealand was recently named the World’s Safest Airline by the Australian rating service AirlineRatings.com, highlighting the airline’s laser-focus on safety. Last year, Air New Zealand won Best Corporate Reputation in New Zealand – 8th year in a row.
Air New Zealand has a well-connected domestic business, connecting customers and cargo to 20 different regions around New Zealand.
Internationally, the airline has direct flights to major cities across Australia, Asia, the Pacific Islands and the US.
Air New Zealand aircraft are proudly identified by its distinct tail livery of the Mangōpare, the Māori symbol of the hammerhead shark which represents strength, tenacity, and resilience.
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