Air New Zealand Secures Wamos Air’s A330 for Auckland-Perth Route Amidst Capacity Gap

Air New Zealand has once again turned to Spanish ACMI/charter specialist Wamos Air for wet-leased A330-200 capacity to operate on the Auckland-Perth route. The lease period is set from February 9 to April 30, 2024, filling a capacity gap caused by Pratt & Whitney engine issues. Air New Zealand had previously utilized Wamos Air’s A330-200 on the route for most of 2023.

As part of its proactive measures to manage engine maintenance issues affecting its fleet, Air New Zealand has entered into a temporary lease agreement with Wamos Air. This arrangement ensures additional flexibility in operations due to maintenance requirements and potential disruptions beyond the airline’s control. While the lease is a temporary measure, it aims to safeguard customers’ travel plans during the period.

The decision to seek additional capacity follows the completion of Wamos Air’s previous operating period on the route, which concluded on October 28, 2023. Air New Zealand had reintroduced one of its B787-9s to the Auckland-Perth route at that time. However, the carrier continues to face challenges in widebody capacity, awaiting deliveries of additional B787-9s and B787-10s from Boeing. Furthermore, the airline anticipates temporary operational adjustments for its A320neo fleet due to engine removals and inspections following Pratt & Whitney’s global geared turbofan engine recall notice. The lease agreement with Wamos Air provides Air New Zealand with flexibility and certainty amidst these challenges.