Configured to seat 214 passengers, the A321neo will be used to fly to Australia and the Pacific islands with an increase in capacity and an enhancement in fuel efficiency.
The first of the two new aircraft is set to enter service in the following weeks, with the second due to follow in the next few months. Talking about the new arrivals, the airline‘s Chief Commercial Officer, Jeremy O’Brien, said:
“These new A321neo are a clear sign we’re investing for the future – boosting our international network and delivering more choice for customers. It’s about doing what we do best: connecting Kiwi to the world and bringing visitors to our shores”
The announcement comes shortly after the airline released plans in May 2025 to introduce jet services to their Hamilton-Christchurch route using their Airbus A320 from September. For the first time in 25 years, Air New Zealand will be bringing back domestic jet services to Hamilton with this Airbus A320 aircraft.
With these two huge announcements following each other so closely, it highlights the airline’s intent to invest in its network and offer customers the best service possible. Chief Executive Officer, Greg Foran, highlighted this by saying:
“Hamilton–Christchurch is one of our strongest and fastest-growing regional routes, and the addition of jet services reflects that increasing demand. It offers customers more choice and more seats”
With the airline eager to improve travel experiences and maintain this period of growth, its activity will be one to keep a close eye on in the coming years.
Based in Auckland, Air New Zealand is the flag carrier of New Zealand. Flying 16 million passengers across their network annually, they offer over 400 flights a day to 49 different locations both domestically and internationally.
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Aviation Reporter - With a keen eye for detail and a passion for air-travel, Harrison brings timely and insightful news to aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike as an Aviation Reporter