Air New Zealand, in response to surging demand for travel, has announced the addition of new aircraft to its fleet, aiming to enhance capacity and provide customers with more options for both domestic and international routes. The airline’s 2023 annual results unveiled plans to introduce two new ATR72-600 turboprop aircraft and two Airbus A321neo aircraft by late 2024, thereby increasing total seat capacity by 768,000 annually. The two new ATR72-600 turboprop aircraft, each with a seating capacity of 68, will focus on the airline’s regional network, particularly serving destinations like Tauranga and Nelson. These additions are set to boost capacity by over 5,700 seats per week, catering to the strong demand across the regional sector.
Furthermore, Air New Zealand’s fleet will include two Airbus A321neo aircraft configured for international flying, accommodating 214 passengers. These aircraft will be deployed on routes to Tasman and Pacific Island destinations, offering more than 9,000 extra seats per week. This capacity expansion will make Air New Zealand the carrier with the most significant capacity across the Tasman, providing travelers with greater choices at competitive prices.