Air New Zealand is exploring the possibility of launching non-stop services to India as it seeks to strengthen travel links between the two countries amid growing economic and cultural ties. The airline's CEO, Nikhil Ravishankar, speaking on the sidelines of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) annual meeting, revealed that the carrier is actively studying the commercial feasibility of operating direct routes to Indian destinations.
Codeshare and Collaboration
Ravishankar noted that Air New Zealand already maintains a codeshare arrangement with Air India and is collaborating closely with both Air India and Singapore Airlines to expand travel options. This partnership leverages the Star Alliance network, of which all three airlines are members, to enhance connectivity across multiple routes.
FTA Opens New Opportunities
The Air New Zealand chief highlighted that the recently concluded Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and New Zealand has created fresh opportunities for deeper engagement between the two nations. He pointed out that New Zealand is home to a large Indian-origin community, making enhanced connectivity increasingly important.
Partnership with Air India
In March 2025, Air India and Air New Zealand signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at expanding cooperation and introducing a new codeshare partnership across 16 routes connecting India, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand. Under the arrangement, passengers traveling from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai can connect through Sydney, Melbourne, or Singapore to Air New Zealand-operated services bound for Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, and Queenstown.
The agreement also includes plans to explore a non-stop India-New Zealand service by the end of 2028, subject to aircraft availability and regulatory approvals. This development underscores the growing importance of the India-New Zealand travel corridor and the commitment of both airlines to meet passenger demand.
