Air New Zealand and Air China’s proposed alliance will place an importance on the movement of high value cargo. 

The alliance, subject to regulatory approvals, could commence in December. It would see Air China operate a daily direct service between Beijing and Auckland. Air New Zealand has a daily Shanghai to Auckland service, which uses a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner from 24 August.

The airlines say the alliance could double capacity between China and New Zealand. The deal will see New Zealand connect to the Chinese capital for the first time in three years. Air New Zealand chief executive officer (CEO), Christopher Luxon, says: “Airlines play a vital role in facilitating growth through crucial people to people connections and the movement of high value cargo.”

Air China CEO, Song Zhiyong, says the alliance will allow both flag carriers to build a sustainable service between Beijing and Auckland and it will supplement the existing connectivity between China and New Zealand.