Air NZ, Air India Set Codeshare For Direct Flights
Air New Zealand and Air India have inked a new codeshare agreement aimed at unlocking the potential for direct flight connections between India and New Zealand, marking a significant milestone in enhancing travel convenience between the two nations. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed on March 19, 2025, outlines a collaborative partnership that will initially cover 16 routes connecting key destinations across India, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand. This agreement will allow passengers to enjoy streamlined itineraries by linking flights operated by Air India with those by Air New Zealand, thereby expanding the network and offering more choices for travelers.
The MoU was formalized during an event in Mumbai that was attended by high-profile figures including New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran, and Air India CEO and MD Campbell Wilson. The presence of these top officials underscores the strategic importance of the deal and reflects the growing economic and cultural ties between the two countries. Under the new codeshare arrangement, customers will be able to begin their journey on Air India flights from major Indian hubs such as Delhi International Airport, Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Bengaluru International Airport, and Chennai International Airport. They can then seamlessly connect at key transit points like Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport, Melbourne Airport, or Singapore Changi Airport, before boarding Air New Zealand-operated flights to major destinations in New Zealand including Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, and Queenstown.
Currently, passengers traveling between New Zealand and India have relied on connecting flights via Singapore Changi Airport, using Singapore Airlines to complete their journeys. This new codeshare agreement is expected to provide a more direct and customer-friendly alternative, improving the overall travel experience by reducing layover times and simplifying booking procedures. Air New Zealand has expressed optimism about the potential benefits of this partnership, noting that the MoU not only enhances current route options but also sets the stage for further exploration of direct flight services between the two countries. The airlines are looking into the possibility of launching a direct route by the end of 2028, contingent on the delivery of new aircraft and the necessary approvals from government regulators.
The strategic move is supported by demographic trends, as highlighted by a 2023 New Zealand census that identified the Indian community as the third-largest ethnic group in the country, with over 290,000 individuals of Indian descent. This sizeable community further emphasizes the importance of improved connectivity between India and New Zealand. Both airlines are eager to tap into this growing market, with Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran stating that India represents a key growth area. Foran noted that the codeshare agreement is an important initial step that will provide more travel options for customers while the airlines work on understanding the requirements and potential of a direct service.
The new codeshare pact is expected to boost tourism, business travel, and cultural exchanges between the two nations. By reducing travel hassles and increasing flight options, the agreement is poised to play a significant role in strengthening the air travel market and reinforcing bilateral ties. As the partnership evolves and additional routes are explored, the move signals a promising future for enhanced connectivity, economic collaboration, and a more integrated travel experience across the vast distances separating India and New Zealand.
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