Air New Zealand pioneers ‘gate to gate’ use of Bluetooth

Media release

19 July, 2016

Air New Zealand pioneers ‘gate to gate’ use of Bluetooth devices onboard its fleet

In a first for airlines in the South Pacific, Air New Zealand is giving customers the freedom to use Bluetooth devices ‘gate to gate’ across its entire fleet.

In line with the airline’s commitment to drive innovation, fromThursday customers flying on any service across the airline’s domestic and international network will be able to operate Bluetooth devices from the departure gate to the arrival gate, provided their devices are set to flight mode.

This means customers can remain connected with their wearable Bluetooth tech such as Fitbit devices, Apple watches and Bluetooth headsets, as well as operate a wireless mouse and wireless keyboard during cruise.

Air New Zealand’s General Manager Customer Experience, Carrie Hurihanganui says enabling Bluetooth powered electronic devices onboard is further evidence of the airline’s customer-centric thinking.

“We’re continually working to enhance our customers’ journeys in every way we can. Enabling customers to use their Bluetooth devices from the departure gate right through to arrivals is part of our dedicated focus to meet the needs of our travellers.”

Air New Zealand secured approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand for Bluetooth use onboard following comprehensive testing conducted across its fleet.

Use of Bluetooth devices gate to gate will be limited to common lightweight, handheld personal electronic devices (PEDs), or for large PED devices during cruise. High-power industrial devices are not permitted to be used on Air New Zealand aircraft.

Air New Zealand customers will be able to use Bluetooth devices onboard from Thursday July 21st.

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