Thursday, March 20, 2025
New Zealand’s Premier Christopher Luxon is currently in India on an official visit aimed at strengthening trade and diplomatic ties between the two nations. His arrival on March 17, 2025, marked the beginning of a week-long engagement designed to enhance economic cooperation. One of the key developments to emerge from his visit is a significant milestone in aviation: the announcement of a new partnership between Air India and Air New Zealand.
Air India and Air New Zealand Forge Codeshare Agreement, Eye Direct Flights by 2028
In a move set to revolutionize air travel between India and New Zealand, national carriers Air India and Air New Zealand have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance connectivity. The agreement, formalized in Mumbai on March 19, 2025, was witnessed by Premier Luxon and other high-ranking officials, underscoring the growing ties between the two nations.
The agreement will enable seamless travel on 16 key routes spanning India, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand. Under the new codeshare, passengers departing from major Indian cities—Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai—will be able to book single-ticket itineraries on Air India flights connecting via Sydney, Melbourne, or Singapore to New Zealand destinations, including Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, and Queenstown.
Beyond simplifying travel logistics, the codeshare aims to promote tourism in both countries, opening doors for more seamless business and leisure travel.
Plans for a Direct India-New Zealand Service by 2028
One of the most exciting aspects of the MoU is the commitment to exploring a direct flight route between India and New Zealand. Both carriers will work toward launching this non-stop service by 2028, subject to aircraft availability and regulatory approvals.
Given the vast distance between the two countries—approximately 7,800 miles (12,550 kilometers) from New Delhi to Wellington—a long-range aircraft such as the Airbus A350-1000 is expected to be required to make the journey feasible. This direct route would significantly cut down travel time and offer travelers a more convenient alternative compared to current one-stop options via Australia or Southeast Asia.
The Future of India-New Zealand Aviation Ties
The new codeshare agreement lays the groundwork for deeper aviation collaboration between India and New Zealand. With a steadily growing demand for travel between the two nations—driven by tourism, education, and trade—the partnership between Air India and Air New Zealand marks a crucial step toward enhancing connectivity.
In the long term, the potential introduction of direct flights would be a game-changer, eliminating the need for layovers and further cementing bilateral relations. Until then, the codeshare provides travelers with a streamlined option to explore both nations with ease.
With a commitment to expanding their networks and improving passenger experience, Air India and Air New Zealand are paving the way for a stronger aviation bridge between India and the Pacific region.
