5 September, 2013
Increased capacity for critical Rotorua flight route
Rotorua International Airport welcomes Air New Zealand’s announcement that it will operate a larger Q300 aircraft on its
weekday morning flight between Auckland and Rotorua.
The Q300 flights will commence in February 2014, with the departure time for the Auckland to Rotorua flight moving from
8:05am to 8:30am, and the Rotorua to Auckland flight leaving slightly later at 9:30am instead of 9am.
The 50 seat Q300 aircraft provides an additional 31 seats per flight, the equivalent of a 300 percent annual seat
capacity increase.
The scheduling change and the potential for Air New Zealand to offer $79 lead in fares are positive developments for
Rotorua businesses and residents alike, says Rotorua International Airport Chief Executive, Alastair Rhodes.
“The fact Air New Zealand is providing the increased capacity without any decrease in frequency means we get the benefit
of an efficient and cost-effective schedule for locals and visitors to and from Rotorua and the wider Bay of Plenty
region.”
Mr Rhodes says the introduction of the Q300 to the Auckland - Rotorua route demonstrates a real commitment from Air New
Zealand to meet the needs of Rotorua, Bay of Plenty and Auckland travellers.
“In addition, with most international visitors flying into Auckland International Airport, the domestic Auckland –
Rotorua link is a critical tourism route for us. As such, the additional capacity of the Q300 will also have a positive
spin-off for the local and regional tourism sector.”
Air New Zealand Group General Manager New Zealand and Pacific Islands, Cam Wallace says the service is sure to prove
popular with leisure and business travellers and tourists.
“The up-gauge of aircraft and extra capacity that it will provide ensures that we’re not only able to offer more seats
between Auckland and Rotorua, but more seats at better prices.”
The Q300 flights are available for booking now at www.airnewzealand.com. Further information is available at
www.rotorua-airport.co.nz
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