Air China will launch direct daily flights to New Zealand, as part of a proposed alliance with Air New Zealand.
Subject to regulatory approval, Air China is hoping to introduce a daily direct service between Beijing and Auckland.
This is in addition to the airline’s existing codeshare on Air New Zealand’s daily Shanghai – Auckland service, which will be operated exclusively by Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft from late August.
As part of the alliance, Air China will fly direct to NZ.
Extra services would see the alliance open Beijing up to New Zealand travellers, and potentially double capacity between China and New Zealand.
According to Auckland Airport’s spokesperson Norris Carter, the service would inject up to $200 million in both economies.
“The alliance will immediately increase the number of direct air services we have with China, one of New Zealand’s fastest growing tourism markets.”
Norris Carter, Auckland Airport CEO
China is currently New Zealand’s second largest inbound market following Australia.
Around 231,120 Chinese people visited New Zealand in 2013, up from 194,752 the prior year.
Air New Zealand CEO, Christopher Luxon added that the connection would offer ‘unparalleled air connectivity’, while Air China Chief Executive Officer Song Zhiyong sees the relationship as a chance to enter a new phase of economic development and cultural and political exchanges.
“This service, along with Air New Zealand’s Shanghai – Auckland service, will provide greater benefits to travellers in both countries in the coming years – an outcome which we will feel very proud of.”
Song Zhiyong, Air China CEO
Air New Zealand and Air China first proposed the alliance in November last year.
If approved, the alliance could start as early as December this year, with direct services taking off shortly afterwards.