Air NZ could resume weekly Tonga service if restrictions end [1]
Monday, May 25, 2020 - 18:05
Air New Zealand services to Tonga and other Pacific countries such as Fiji, Samoa, Rarotonga, New Caledonia and French Polynesia, could resume to one return service from Auckland per week, if the travel restrictions currently in place around passenger services are lifted, the airline announced today.
Air New Zealand said it will continue to keep air links open for essential travel and cargo movement on key trade routes up to 31 August, amid government travel restrictions and the CoViD-19 outbreak. They have released a new schedule.
It had previously announced a limited international network through to 30 June.
Overall, the airline has seen a 95 percent reduction in international capacity compared to pre-CoViD-19 levels.
Air New Zealand Chief Networks, Strategy and Alliances Officer Nick Judd says the airline continues to keep a close eye on the impact CoViD-19 is having on travel around the world.
“While it’s unfortunate the majority of our international network remains cancelled for the foreseeable future, we support the return of safe flying if borders re-open and will update our international network if and when possible.
“We also support the return of safe trans-Tasman flying when practical. We’re keen to work with government and industry partners on steps we can take to safely support economic recovery through travel and connect family and friends.”
The following schedule will now apply through to 31 August 2020, with a few exceptions which extend beyond this date. All services are subject to change as governments change travel and border restrictions.
Tasman services (per week)
|
Auckland-Sydney |
Four return services |
|
Auckland-Brisbane |
Three return services |
|
Auckland-Melbourne |
Three return services |
Pacific services (per week)
|
Auckland-Niue |
One return service (through until 31 October) |
|
Sydney-Norfolk |
One return service (through until 24 October) |
|
Brisbane-Norfolk |
One return service (through until 24 October) |
Long-haul services (per week)
|
Auckland-Los Angeles |
Five return services |
|
Auckland-Hong Kong |
Two return services |
The airline stated that customers affected by these changes are being supported by the airline’s contact centre and customer care team. Customers booked via a travel agent, including a third-party website (e.g. Expedia, Booking.com) should speak with their agent. Customers are urged to check Air New Zealand’s dedicated CoViD-19 information hub [2], before calling the airline’s contact centre.