Air New Zealand has recorded a strong improvement in punctuality, ranking second in the Asia Pacific region for 2025 in the Cirium On-Time Performance Review. The result marks a significant step forward in the airline’s ongoing efforts to deliver more reliable schedules for passengers across its domestic and international network.
Domestic and Regional Networks Lead Gains
Air New Zealand achieved an on-time arrival rate of 79.29% in 2025, outperforming the global industry average of just over 76%. It also successfully operated 97.22% of its scheduled services, completing more than 171,000 flights during the year, an improvement on its 2024 performance.
The carrier’s strongest results came from its domestic operations. The airline’s domestic jet network achieved an on-time arrival rate of 81%, while its regional network followed closely at 80.7%.
These gains were particularly notable toward the end of the year. In November 2025, 84.5% of regional flights arrived on time, with December maintaining a solid 81.2% performance. The improvements reflect targeted changes designed to better align schedules with the realities of operating across New Zealand’s diverse airport infrastructure.
Smarter Scheduling Drives Reliability
According to Kate Boyer, General Manager Airports, the ranking reflects a “large programme of work across the business” focused on schedule reliability. Central to this effort was the introduction of a new regional scheduling strategy in 2025.
Previously, aircraft turn times were standardized across the network. The airline has since moved to a more tailored approach, recognizing that turnaround requirements vary significantly depending on airport size, congestion, and gate configuration.
“For example, some Auckland Airport gates require extra time for aircraft tugs. By planning around what actually happens on the ground, we’re setting ourselves up for stronger, more reliable performance,” Boyer said.
Business-Wide Focus on Punctuality
The airline is now extending this approach across its international and domestic jet services, supported by a new in-house digital scheduling tool designed to assess individual airport needs.
Additional initiatives include expanded frontline staff training, a dedicated customer assistance role for wheelchair services, investment in ground equipment, and the rollout of a digital communications platform to improve coordination across operations.
Boyer emphasized that on-time performance remains a daily priority.
“While it’s encouraging to see progress reflected in global rankings, what matters most is delivering for our customers every single day,” she said.
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