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Air New Zealand, Air China's new route is approved

Air New Zealand and Air China have received approval to commence daily joint flights between Auckland and Beijing.

 

Commencing in December, it will be the third route the airline embarks on  this year. The others are its own new services to Houston in the USA and Buenos Aires in Argentina.

Under the alliance with Air New Zealand will operate its Boeing 787 aircraft on the existing daily services between Auckland and Shanghai, while Air China will operate on the Auckland to Beijing route.

Air New Zealand tail

Initially Air China will operate A330-200 aircraft on the route which features Business and Economy cabins.

Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Christopher Luxon said the agreement between the two airlines will help to deepen tourism and business connections between New Zealand and its second largest inbound visitor market.

“Collaborating with Air China we can work together to grow this market, and benefit customers through a new direct link between New Zealand and Beijing.”

Christopher Luxon, Air New Zealand CEO

Air China

Air China Chief Executive Officer Song Zhiyong added that the relationship between China and New Zealand is going from strength to strength, with increased economic, cultural and political exchanges in recent years.

In addition to between access between China and New Zealand, the new alliance also allows Air New Zealand and Air China members to enjoy reciprocal frequent flyer benefits including loyalty earning and redemption and lounge access.

Fares will go on sale immediately, with a special limited time introductory fare from just NZ$539 one-way.

Are you excited to see Air New Zealand expand internationally?