Air India and Air New Zealand have embarked on a significant journey together, having recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that aims to enhance connectivity and create new opportunities for travelers between India and New Zealand. This innovative partnership includes a codeshare agreement covering 16 key routes spanning India, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand.
The MoU signing took place at the prestigious 'Travel and Tourism Reception' organized by New Zealand Tourism at Mumbai's Taj Mahal Palace, where special guest New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon underscored the agreement's importance to both nations.
According to Air New Zealand's CEO Greg Foran, the partnership is poised to position India as a crucial growth market for their operations. He remarked, "India represents a key growth market for Air New Zealand, and we are excited about the opportunity to enhance connectivity for travellers between our two countries. This codeshare agreement is an important first step, offering more options for customers while we work to understand what a direct service could look like."
Indeed, the MoU not only signifies a codeshare agreement but also explores the possibility of a direct flight from Delhi to Auckland by 2028, pending regulatory approvals and aircraft availability. The addition of this route could drastically improve travel times for passengers, as current connecting flights range between a staggering 17 to 30 hours.
Air India CEO Campbell Wilson elaborated on the strategic significance of this collaboration, stating, "As part of Air India’s ongoing transformation… we are delighted to be deepening our relationship with Air New Zealand, which follows the recent expansion of our codeshare partnerships with Lufthansa Group, Singapore Airlines, and All Nippon Airways. This partnership will not only strengthen our presence and simplify customer journeys but also help us develop traffic so that, in time to come, we may viably operate a non-stop service…"
This collaboration aims to facilitate seamless travel for passengers flying from major cities in India—such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai—via connecting Air India flights to Air New Zealand's extensive network that includes Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown.
Statistics reflect a burgeoning interest in New Zealand from Indian travelers. Last year, New Zealand welcomed approximately 87,000 visitors from India, a notable 23 percent increase from pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Furthermore, 72 percent of these visitors arrived during off-peak seasons, demonstrating a steady willingness to travel outside of peak periods. Data from Tourism New Zealand suggests that approximately 18 million Indians are actively contemplating a visit to New Zealand, with 57 percent identifying it as their top destination.
Foran’s comments during the signing ceremony underscore the broader implications of the partnership, not solely for tourism but for enhancing business and educational ties between the two nations. He expressed, "Today’s event underscores the significance of the India market to New Zealand, not only for tourism but also for strengthening business and education ties. We are committed to working collaboratively to grow the travel market over the coming years, ensuring a strong foundation for a successful direct service by 2028."
As the agreement progresses and operational details are finalized, travelers can expect the codeshare flights to become available for booking through airline websites and travel agencies shortly. This strategic move represents a culmination of efforts to improve and expand air travel routes between two countries rich in culture and opportunities.
The relationship between Air India and Air New Zealand is not just about flight routes, but about uniting people and promoting interconnectedness through travel. With the potential range of destinations and the ease of travel that this partnership will provide, both airlines are poised to make significant strides in boosting tourism and fostering closer ties between India and New Zealand.
As hopes soar for a direct Delhi to Auckland flight, joining these nations through a seamless travel experience could not only serve as a gateway for countless travelers but also pave the way for stronger economic and cultural exchanges in the years to come.
