The Nelson Airport operator has rejected the use of a 40-year-old Massey Ferguson tractor by fledgling airline Kiwi Regional Airlines to tow luggage carriers.
Nelson Airport chief executive Rob Evans told Stuff the tractor could be used to tow Kiwi Regional’s SAAB 340 aircraft, but it would be “cumbersome” to tow luggage carriers at the front of the terminal.
“Having that operating at our terminal is not at the sort of standard of engineering that we would expect from an airline. Quite frankly it’s a 40 year old tractor, it’s meant for the farm, ”says Evans.
Evans says the tractor was not suitable when driven close to adults and children at the terminal.
Kiwi Regional Airlines chief executive officer Ewan Wilson called the Nelson Airport Company “ageist” for turning down the tractor he purchased especially.
“It’s just ageism, it doesn’t blow smoke and it may be slightly older than their other vehicles but Massey Fergusons have been the backbone of aviation for years,” he says.
The airport company has provided Wilson with a modern electric cart to tow luggage while he finds an appropriate towing vehicle.
Wilson told Stuff he was disappointed that he was required to purchase a new cart but accepts the ruling by the Nelson Airport operator.
“I think the decision was unjustified but ultimately they’re the airport company and they make the rules,” he said to Stuff.
