Air New Zealand has been awarded more international cargo flights under the Government’s International Air Freight Capacity (IAFC) Scheme.
Phase two of the IAFC scheme runs from 1 December 2020 through to 31 March 2021 and Air New Zealand says it will operate around 55 international flights per week going forward.
Air New Zealand cargo general manager Anna Palairet says it’s good news not only for the airline but for importers and exporters wanting to get their products to key markets around the world.
“It’s great to see the extension of the IAFC scheme as it provides much-needed support and stability to New Zealand importers and exporters.
“Our flying schedule remains largely the same and it’s exciting to see new services to Guangzhou and Perth, as well as some enhancements to the ongoing schedule to improve the connectivity for South Island exporters.
“With the festive season just around the corner, these additional flights will be instrumental in helping New Zealand exporters get their produce on holiday tables around the world. We’ll be sending more than 1000 tonnes of lamb up to the UK in time for Christmas and more than 3500 tonnes of stone fruit around the globe with a majority moving into China for the Chinese New Year,” Palairet says.
Since the airline started flying under the IAFC scheme in May, it has operated more than 1100 return flights, carrying over 39,000 tonnes of cargo in and out of New Zealand.
Freightways is another cargo provider to benefit from the scheme and offer much needed trans-Tasman freight capacity.
