Air New Zealand and Air Chathams have confirmed potential partnership talks a day after the Government announced a “one-off” lifeline to rescue New Zealand’s struggling regional aviation network.
Cabinet said it had approved funding for digital upgrades to allow for small regional carriers to integrate booking systems with the platforms of larger airlines.
Known as “interlining”, the upgrades could allow passengers to book a single itinerary and flights on different airlines, including the major carriers.
“Book a flight from, say, Whakatāne to Los Angeles through the Air New Zealand website and receive one ticket on an interlined journey,” Air Chathams CEO Duane Emeny told 1News.
Regional Development Minister Shane Jones said, it was astounding the national carrier had not already formed a partnership after promising to do so for several years.
“Historically, Air New Zealand waited for the business to develop, and then they swooped in and dropped their prices, taking business away,” he said.
In a statement to 1News, Air New Zealand confirmed discussions were underway with Air Chathams about potential opportunities to work more closely together.
“We’ll review the details of the package when they’re released and continue working with officials and regional partners on practical next steps.”
Air Chathams was currently the only regional airline in discussions with the national carrier, but there were hopes others would get on board.
“It’s really important in terms of putting regional communities on the map. They fell off the map when Air New Zealand stopped flying there,” Emeny said.
He explained benefits could go further than convenience, including potential access to airlines’ lounges and frequent flyer points.
