Star Alliance partners Air New Zealand and Air India have announced a new codeshare partnership and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
This collaboration aims to significantly improve air travel options between India and New Zealand, with a long-term goal of establishing direct flights.
The official signing of the MoU, a landmark event, took place in Mumbai, graced by the presence of New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, and other prominent dignitaries.
This partnership marks a pivotal moment in strengthening ties between the two nations, promising increased convenience and accessibility for travellers.
New Codeshare Agreement
The core of this partnership lies in a new codeshare agreement, encompassing 16 strategic routes. This agreement will enable seamless travel between key Indian cities and major New Zealand destination
Key Indian hubs Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai will be covered. It will see connections to Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, and Queenstown.
Passengers will enjoy the convenience of connecting through Sydney, Melbourne, or Singapore on Air New Zealand operated flights, following their initial Air India leg.
This codeshare initiative is designed to simplify the booking and travel experience, offering passengers greater flexibility and choice. Furthermore, it aims to boost the visibility of both India and New Zealand as premier tourist destinations, fostering cultural exchange and economic growth.
Looking Ahead: Direct Flights by 2028
Beyond the immediate benefits of the codeshare agreement, the MoU sets an ambitious target. It seeks the introduction of direct flights between India and New Zealand by the end of 2028.
This plan, however, is contingent upon the delivery of new aircraft and the necessary regulatory approvals from relevant government bodies.
Greg Foran, Chief Executive of Air New Zealand, underscored the strategic importance of India as a burgeoning market. “India represents a key growth market for Air New Zealand,” Foran stated.
“We are excited about the opportunity to enhance connectivity for travellers between our two countries.” He emphasized that the codeshare agreement is a crucial first step, providing immediate benefits while laying the groundwork for a future direct service.
“Today’s event underscores the significance of the India market to New Zealand, not only for tourism but also for strengthening business and education ties,” he added.
Campbell Wilson, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of Air India, supported the prospect. “As part of Air India’s ongoing transformation, we have been expanding our global network. We use our own aircraft as well as through new or expanded codeshare agreements with other airlines.”
“These are chiefly our Star Alliance partners,” Wilson explained. He highlighted the deepening relationship with Air New Zealand. This follows similar expansions with the Lufthansa Group, Singapore Airlines, and All Nippon Airways.
“This partnership will not only strengthen our presence and simplify customer journeys, but also help us develop traffic so that, in time to come, we may viably operate a non-stop service between India and New Zealand,” he affirmed.
Boosting Tourism and Economic Growth
With India rapidly emerging as a significant tourism and business hub, this partnership aligns with the airlines’ commitment to providing superior travel experiences while supporting trade, tourism, and economic development.
Currently, Air New Zealand customers traveling between New Zealand and India benefit from reliable connectivity via Singapore Airlines, ensuring a smooth transit through Singapore.
The prospect of a direct route promises to further solidify the relationship between the two nations, offering more efficient and accessible travel options.
Tourism New Zealand’s Role
The MoU also highlights Tourism New Zealand’s dedication to increasing inbound tourism from India. Research indicates that approximately 18 million people in New Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai are actively considering travel to New Zealand.
This positions India firmly as a key emerging market. Last year, over 80,000 international travelers arrived from India, marking a 23% increase compared to 2019.
Rene de Monchy, Chief Executive of Tourism New Zealand, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. “It’s fantastic to see Air New Zealand and Air India working on stronger international connectivity between the two countries,” de Monchy said.
“We know improved aviation links have a crucial role to play in the growth of international tourism and will make it easier for Indian travellers to come and enjoy a holiday in New Zealand.”
He also noted the advantageous travel patterns of Indian tourists, who tend to visit New Zealand during off-peak months, aligning with their major holiday periods. This will help balance tourism flows throughout the year.
The codeshare flights will be made available for booking progressively, pending the necessary regulatory approvals.
This partnership signifies a major step forward in strengthening air connectivity between India and New Zealand.
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