'Everyone wins': Air New Zealand in talks to partner up with Air Chathams

The country’s national carrier could soon be linking up with one of New Zealand’s regional airlines. Air New Zealand and Air Chathams are in talks over an interline agreement. This would allow Air Chathams passengers to change onto an Air New Zealand service without having to pick up their bags or check-in again, effectively creating a single itinerary. It would also mean more regional destinations would feature on Air New Zealand’s booking platform. The two airlines were close to announcing an interline agreement in March 2020 before it was scuppered by the Covid pandemic. Air New Zealand chief transformation and alliances officer, Mike Williams, said the deal would help boost regional connectivity. “We do our best to serve communities across the country. Smaller operators play a critical role and do an excellent job. “We are in discussions with Air Chathams about potential opportunities to work more closely with them.” Air Chathams chief operating officer Duane Emeny called the plan a “very big deal”. “Interline agreements between large carriers and small regional feeder airlines are critical enablers for regional growth and community wellbeing, especially in New Zealand,” Emeny told Stuff.<br/>