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Air India and Air New Zealand have partnered to improve connectivity between India and New Zealand through a new codeshare agreement. Travellers will benefit from seamless connections across 16 routes, with potential direct flights by 2028.
Air India and Air New Zealand have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen air connectivity between India and New Zealand.
This strategic agreement, signed in Mumbai in the presence of New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, marks a major step in enhancing travel options for passengers.
Seamless Travel: New Codeshare Partnership Takes Flight
Imagine effortlessly travelling from bustling Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai to the stunning landscapes of Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, and Queenstown. This dream is becoming a reality with the new codeshare agreement.
• Expanded Routes: The MoU establishes a codeshare partnership on 16 key routes, connecting Indian cities via Sydney, Melbourne, or Singapore to New Zealand destinations.
• Enhanced Convenience: Travelers will benefit from streamlined booking processes and seamless connections, thanks to this collaboration.
• Key Connections: Air India flights will link with Air New Zealand-operated flights via Sydney, Melbourne, or Singapore.
This partnership is a boon for travellers seeking convenient and efficient travel options between these two vibrant nations.
Direct Flights on the Horizon: A 2028 Vision
Looking ahead, Air New Zealand and Air India are exploring the possibility of launching a direct flight service between India and New Zealand by the end of 2028. This ambitious plan is contingent on new aircraft deliveries and approvals from relevant regulatory bodies.
• Future Connectivity: A direct route would significantly reduce travel time and enhance accessibility.
• Strategic Growth: This initiative reflects the airlines’ commitment to expanding their global network and catering to the growing demand for travel between India and New Zealand.
Tourism Boom: India Emerges as a Key Market
India’s burgeoning tourism market is capturing the attention of global travel industry leaders. Tourism New Zealand recognizes the immense potential of this market, with research indicating that millions of Indians are actively considering travel to New Zealand.
• Growing Interest: Over 80,000 Indian travelers visited New Zealand last year, showcasing the increasing popularity of the destination.
• Off-Peak Appeal: Indian travellers tend to visit during New Zealand’s off-peak months, providing a welcome boost to the country’s tourism sector.
• Tourism New Zealand’s Role: Tourism New Zealand is committed to growing inbound tourism from India.
“India represents a key growth market for Air New Zealand,” stated Greg Foran, Air New Zealand’s Chief Executive, highlighting the strategic importance of this partnership.
Air India’s Transformation: Strengthening Global Ties
Air India’s ongoing transformation includes expanding its global network through strategic partnerships. This collaboration with Air New Zealand, a fellow Star Alliance member, is a testament to this commitment.
• Network Expansion: Air India is actively strengthening its network through codeshare agreements with leading airlines.
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with Lufthansa Group, Singapore Airlines, and All Nippon Airways further solidify Air India’s global presence.
• Future Non-Stop Service: Air India is looking to develop traffic that one day enables them to operate a non-stop service.
“This partnership will not only strengthen our presence and simplify customer journeys but also help us develop traffic so that, in time to come, we may viably operate a non-stop service between India and New Zealand,” said Campbell Wilson, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Air India.
When Can Travelers Book These Flights?
The codeshare flights under this partnership will be progressively available for booking, subject to regulatory approvals. This collaboration not only improves travel convenience but also lays the groundwork for a stronger aviation network between India and New Zealand.
Conclusion
This strategic partnership between Air India and Air New Zealand is set to reshape air travel between India and New Zealand. By offering seamless connections, exploring direct flight options, and fostering tourism and business growth, the agreement signifies a significant milestone in international air travel. Travellers can look forward to enhanced convenience and better accessibility in the years ahead.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/air-india-air-new-zealand-sign-codeshare-agreement/
