Marking the only current link between New Zealand’s South Island and North America, United Airlines has commenced operations between Christchurch and San Francisco.
Utilising its B787-900 Dreamliner on the route, United will operate the service three times per week over the Southern Hemisphere summer.
The new service represents the first time an American carrier has flown directly between NZ’s South Island and the United States and the first direct connection between Christchurch and the Californian city.
The United Airlines service will run in partnership with Air New Zealand, through whom United passengers can access NZ’s extensive domestic network.
Tourism boost
Christchurch Airport CEO Justin Watson said the new service would be a boost for two-way tourism.
“Statistics show American visitors who enter the country through Christchurch Airport spend 42% more in New Zealand and stay 33% longer,” he said.
“Based on government data, the seasonal service is forecast to bring in $44 million in visitor spend for New Zealand, with $32 million of that going to the regions of the South Island.
“This is the ideal combination of national value impact and regional economic impact, and will boost tourism value for the country.”
Another benefit
According to Watson, the service will also provide an important link for travel to Antarctica.
“The United States Antarctic Programme is based here because we are the world’s southern-most gateway to the ice,” he added.
“Every year the programme brings more than 3000 staff, scientists and supplies here from America on the way to Antarctica. Having this direct air connection will be invaluable and easier for that process.”
United Airlines Regional Sales Manager for Australia, New Zealand and Tahiti, Tim Wallis said the carrier was excited to strengthen its footprint in NZ, calling the arrival a “special moment for United and all parties involved”.
“New Zealand will always be a bucket list destination for our U.S. travellers, and this flight offers direct access to the natural wonders of the South Island, while also making it easy for New Zealand’s southern population to head north into the Americas and beyond,” he remarked.
“We look forward to continuing to nurture our close ties in New Zealand and offering travellers more choice, thanks to our great partnership with Air New Zealand.
“We have enjoyed working closely with Christchurch Airport on the launch of this route. It’s fantastic to have the community support in welcoming the aircraft’s touchdown on Sunday.”
Read our recent review of United Airlines’ service from Sydney to Houston.
