The New Zealand Air Line Pilot’s Association’s (NZALPA) members continue to abide by all departure and re-entry policies
and procedures at the New Zealand border, set forward by the Ministry of Health, the association said today.
“Ourselves and the airlines have been in continual dialogue with the Ministry on making the sure these rules are both
safe and fit for purpose,”
“As others have described it, Covid is a ‘tricky virus’ and there is no desire nor evidence of New Zealand’s pilots
cutting any corners in regard to border policy,” said NZALPA President Captain Ridling, who returned last evening from a
flight to Tonga.
“As NZALPA outlined earlier this week, on both freight and passenger flights through to Asia, North America and
Australia, our members endure very strict conditions, including constant confinement to hotel rooms and frequent Covid
testing.
“There appears to be plenty of misinformation being shared around conditions at the New Zealand border. The process
around the New Zealand border operation can only be confirmed by those that know it well. Which include our pilots who
are operating in this environment daily.
“This pandemic and its ramifications for all New Zealanders is changing daily and has required active and consistent
management. Bearing this in mind we appreciate the support and leadership of Air New Zealand’s CEO Mr Greg Foran and the
Health Minister Chris Hipkins have shown regarding the safety and security of New Zealand’s Pilots.
“They are managing a dynamic situation that nobody has seen before.
“For the pilots who are overseas, and for their families back home this situation can be challenging. However, we are
well aware of our duties and responsibilities as part of our service to New Zealand and our colleagues,” Captain Ridling
said.
“There is certainly little opportunity or any desire by our members to cut corners on flights to and from international
destinations,”
“Our members take their roles and their responsibilities to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus extremely seriously
and understand the enormity of consequence. Like all New Zealanders our pilots have no desire to risk exposure to
Covid-19 for themselves, their families or the community.”