Regulators Clear Air New Zealand And Singapore Airlines Alliance Extension

The Air New Zealand and Singapore Airlines alliance is growing. The two carriers have received approval from Hon Matt Doocey, New Zealand’s Associate Minister of Transport, to extend their joint venture partnership until March 2029. This five-year renewal signals more benefits, varied travel options, and broader global access for their customers.

Singapore Airlines alliance extension with Air New Zealand — Singapore Airlines A380

Air New Zealand & Singapore Airlines: A Decade-Long Collaboration

Throughout their decade-long collaboration, the two airlines have significantly increased the available seats between New Zealand and Singapore by almost 50%. Travelers now have the option of up to three daily flights from Auckland to Singapore and a daily flight connecting Christchurch with Singapore.

Air New Zealand Chief Transformation and Alliances Officer Mike Williams says the partnership is key in connecting New Zealand to the world. “Since the alliance was launched at the beginning of 2015, the two flag carriers have together carried over 4.6 million passengers between New Zealand, Singapore and beyond,” Williams noted. “The partnership gives New Zealanders access to the world on Singapore Airlines’ vast network beyond the Singapore gateway into destinations in Europe, India and Southeast Asia. With the partnership extended for a further five years, together with Singapore Airlines, we can continue to stimulate trade and tourism, and provide customers with greater choice and connectivity.”

Pending regulatory approval, the joint venture partners plan to operate four daily services between Auckland and Singapore. These seasonal flights are scheduled from October 27, 2024, to March 29, 2025, enhancing connectivity and choice for travelers during the peak holiday period.

New Services Support Growing Demand For Air Travel

Mr Dai Haoyu, Acting Senior Vice President Marketing Planning, Singapore Airlines, said: “Air New Zealand and Singapore Airlines have been strong partners for close to a decade. The extension of our alliance allows us to continue offering our
customers even more options between Singapore and New Zealand, as well as to domestic destinations with New Zealand and around the world. This is exemplified by the fourth daily seasonal service between Auckland and Singapore, which will support the growing demand for both business and leisure travel.”

The collaboration of the two carriers now links Auckland and Singapore with a fourth daily seasonal flight. During the peak travel months, travelers can choose from 38 weekly round-trip flights between New Zealand and Singapore. In total, this increased frequency offers travelers over 893,000 seats each year.

About Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines rose from its origins in 1947 as Malayan Airways to become a leading world-class carrier known for service excellence, product leadership, and expansive network connectivity. Renamed from Malaysia-Singapore Airlines in 1972, SIA now operates an extensive fleet, reaching numerous destinations worldwide. The airline consistently receives accolades, reinforcing its reputation for exceptional quality and innovation.

In 2024, Fortune Magazine included SIA on its list of the 50 most admired companies globally, marking Singapore Airlines as a standout Singaporean brand. In February 2023, Singapore Airlines earned Airline of the Year at the Air Transport World Airline Industry Awards, for their innovation and unmatched service standards. Discover more about SIA’s journey at www.singaporeair.com.

About Air New Zealand

Beginning in 1940, Air New Zealand has built a reputation for genuine Kiwi hospitality and top-tier safety standards. Starting with flights on a Short S30 flying boat, the airline now boasts a modern fleet, from Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners to Airbus A320s and more. The airline managed to transport over 17 million passengers annually pre-Covid, emphasizing its commitment to connecting communities.

Named the World’s Safest Airline in 2024 by AirlineRatings.com, Air New Zealand leads with its steadfast commitment to passenger safety. Additionally, they won the accolade for Best Corporate Reputation in New Zealand for the ninth consecutive year in 2023. Its extensive domestic network covers 20 regional destinations, while internationally, it offers direct flights across several continents.

Air New Zealand champions sustainability through its focused efforts guided by its Sustainability Framework. The airline’s loyalty program, Airpoints, remains New Zealand’s most rewarding. Its 4 million members earn benefits both in the skies and on the ground. The airline’s aircraft showcase the Mangōpare, the Māori symbol of the hammerhead shark, on their tails. It represents the airline’s strength, resilience, and tenacity.