Airline Updates
Get set for Economy Stretch
Air New Zealand is excited to announce a new, more spacious Economy product, offering flyers extra legroom and perks on long-haul flights, on its widebody fleet from late 2020. "Economy Stretch" is a comfort-led enhancement to our leading Economy service with a roomy 35" pitch seat vs our Economy pitch from 31" and Premium Economy pitch of 41 inches. The new Economy Stretch will include amenities such as a premium headset and plush pillow.
Jetstar announces changes to domestic New Zealand flights
Jetstar has announced it will cease its regional turboprop services in New Zealand from 01 December 2019. The routes affected by this are: Auckland to/from Nelson, Napier, New Plymouth, Palmerston North, and Wellington to/from Nelson.
Air New Zealand has announced they’ll support affected passengers and anyone holding an affected ticket can book an Air New Zealand flight for $50 Seat only, each way. At this time, Air New Zealand has increased the capacity on their regional flights throughout December to assist Jetstar affected passengers.
A new era for Air New Zealand's international network
Air New Zealand has two major announcements. Firstly, from October 2020 they will start a year-round, non-stop 3 x weekly service between Auckland and New York conducted by a 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. The 14,178-kilometre route will be the longest flight the airline offers by distance. Secondly, Air New Zealand has made the difficult decision to retire their daily Los Angeles - London service from October 2020. Los Angeles - London will run as scheduled until October 2020, with no tickets being available to purchase beyond this date.
Air New Zealand has announced Greg Foran as its new Chief Executive Officer
Air New Zealand has appointed a new Chief Executive Officer, Greg Foran. Mr Foran will take up the role in the first quarter of 2020. Foran, a New Zealander, is currently president and chief executive of retail giant Walmart's US operations. Walmart is the world's largest company by revenue. Before Walmart, he held several positions with Woolworths in New Zealand and Australia.
Airport Updates
Auckland International Airport launched 'Prepared Passenger Lane'
The "Prepared Passenger Lane" located at the Domestic Security screening has been launched by Auckland International Airport to assist with peak times at the domestic terminal. The method will provide a faster path through security screening for travellers who have taken their electronic devices out of their hand luggage, emptied their pockets and are ready for inspection.
New Nelson Airport Terminal
Nelson Airport has opened a new terminal to cater to the forecasted demand of passengers travelling. Air New Zealand's head of tourism and regional affairs, Reuben Levermore says the carrier will open a new Regional Lounge at Nelson Airport before Christmas.
Auckland Airport completes a five-year upgrade
The five-year upgrade project at Auckland Airport's International departure terminal is now complete. The opening of a two-story Vintage Bar by Emirates marked the reservations as complete. The departure terminal also now offers two hours of free Wi-Fi for all visitors, upgraded bathroom facilities and new charging points to power devices. There will also be 14 new food and beverage outlets, alongside 32 new retail concepts.
Melbourne Airport introduced Smiths Detection
Melbourne Tullamarine Airport Terminal 4 has implemented Smiths Detection's checkpoint screening technology which uses Computed Tomography (CT) X-ray. The technology will allow liquids and laptops to remain in travellers bags for quicker and smoother security experience.
Hotel Updates
Auckland's Hotel Grand Windsor, MGallery by Sofitel acknowledged as among the best in the world
Auckland's Hotel Grand Windsor scored New Zealand's record of seven Excellence Awards at the Haute Grandeur Awards. Auckland's Hotel Grand Windsor, MGallery by Sofitel won Excellence Awards' Best Boutique Hotel in Oceania', 'Best Luxury Boutique Hotel in Oceania', 'Best Historical Hotel in Oceania', 'Best Luxury Hotel in Oceania'.
SO/ Auckland making a mark in the hotel
At the Haute Grandeur Awards SO/ Auckland has been acknowledged as ‘Best New Hotel in Oceania’, ‘Best Design Hotel in New Zealand’ and ‘Best Luxury Boutique Hotel in New Zealand.
Follow Corporate Traveller on LinkedIn
You’ll receive the latest industry updates, insights and exclusive offers as they happen.