There’s relief in sight for New Zealand’s regional aviation sector, after the government has confirmed $30 million in concessionary loans for regional airlines, plus further funding to support interline capability.
This support marks a turning point for New Zealand’s regional aviation network, which has been struggling to take off thanks to a combination of C-19, as well as rising operating and maintenance costs. Air Chathams’ ceo Duane Emeny says this is a very welcome day for the airline, its people, and the communities it serves. “For many of the regions we fly to, air services are not a luxury – they are the only reliable means of connecting people with family, work, health, and tourism,” he says. “Today’s announcement is a clear recognition by the Government that regional connectivity is as critical to New Zealand as road, rail, and sea transport.”
. . . Ministers Thanked
NZ Airports chief executive Billie Moore has thanked ministers Shane Jones, James Meager and Mark Patterson for taking action. “This investment is modest and won’t fix every challenge, but it will help these dedicated operators start to turn things around,” says Moore. “The challenge now is to stabilise the system, prevent further losses where possible, and put regional air connectivity back on a path to growth.” Emeny also thanked Air New Zealand for its collaboration across the industry, and Auckland Airport for its openness and commitment to help reduce structural costs. The announcement follows a year’s work by NZ Airports, Air Chathams, Sounds Air, Barrier Air and Origin Air, developing policy options for the government to consider.
