New Zealand Unveils 25-Point Aviation Action Plan
New Zealand has launched a comprehensive Aviation Action Plan featuring 25 strategic measures to strengthen and modernize the country’s aviation sector. Developed by the industry-led Interim Aviation Council in partnership with the government, the plan was announced by Associate Transport Minister James Meager at the Aviation Industry Association Conference in Wellington.
The plan outlines reforms in regulatory processes, workforce development, infrastructure, and consumer protections. Key priorities include overhauling specific civil aviation rules to better accommodate new technologies such as drones and unmanned aircraft, streamlining certification timelines, and automating routine functions within the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). A two-year rolling rule-making programme is scheduled to be finalized by the end of 2025.
To address workforce shortages, the plan introduces initiatives to refresh pilot and engineer training pipelines, promote aviation careers, and pursue mutual recognition of international licences. Ringa Hora, the workforce development council for the services sector, is tasked with updating pilot qualifications by the end of 2025 to align training with airline needs.
On the infrastructure side, the plan confirms that the Ohakea airbase, the nearest widebody-capable aerodrome to Auckland International, will be permanently available as an alternative runway for widebody aircraft by December 2026.
Meager highlighted the sector’s importance to trade, tourism, regional connectivity, and economic growth. The government has already allocated NZD30 million (USD17.7 million) in loans from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to support regional carriers. A permanent Aviation Council will be established to oversee implementation and provide long-term leadership.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com