Air NZ receives additional NZ$170m in subsidies as Government continue to support cargo flights

Air NZ will receive up to $170m in subsidies as the Government extends its air freight support scheme. The Maintaining International Air Connectivity scheme was announced in March, to ensure a regular schedule of international air services during Covid-19. Under the scheme, the Government supported the cost of international flying by airlines that participated in cargo flights. The MIAC scheme was an extension of a $600m Government package to support the aviation industry during Covid-19. So far, $321m of Government subsidies had been given to Air NZ in support of the continued transportation of air freight. Over the next five months a further $170m of subsidies will be awarded to the ailrine. Air NZ general manager of cargo Anna Palairet​ said over the summer New Zealand produce would be in high demand. “Our busy export season runs from November through to March, so it’s excellent to see the MIAC financial support scheme extended to cover this five-month period,” Palairet​ said. Transport Minister Michael Wood​ said the scheme allowed for airline support to reduce as passenger numbers increased. “Securing our recovery is a key focus for the Government and we are carefully watching the international aviation market,” Wood said.<br/>