Air New Zealand, Air China renew partnership

Air New Zealand has extended its strategic alliance partnership with Air China for another five years, as both carriers reiterated their commitment to work together as the airline industry recovers from the coronavirus pandemic. The alliance agreement — covering areas like codesharing and frequent flyer benefits — is now extended to 2026. Air NZ chief Greg Foran says the partnership with its fellow Star Alliance carrier will “help New Zealand rebuild together”. “The renewal of our strategic cooperation with Air China will be a vital boost for our tourism industry as it recovers from the severe impact of Covid-19. Our alliance with Air China has delivered, and will continue to deliver, real benefit to New Zealand – including greater choice, extra seats and more flights into New Zealand,” Foran says. Before travel restrictions shut off international borders, Air New Zealand flew between Auckland and Shanghai, while Air China flew between Auckland and Beijing.<br/>