Industry welcomes modernisation of aviation rules, but warns against rushed changes or higher fees

Media release

29 April 2026

Industry welcomes modernisation of aviation rules, but warns against rushed changes or higher fees

New Zealand’s aviation industry is welcoming the Government’s programme to fast-track modernisation of civil aviation rules, but pace must not compromise regulatory rigour nor result in additional fees or levies on the sector.

Simon Wallace, Chief Executive of the Aviation Industry Association of New Zealand, says the Rules Update Programme announced today by Associate Transport Minister James Meager is long overdue, with some rules more than 20 years old.

“We strongly welcome and support this important programme of work, a key plank of the Aviation Action Plan developed by the Aviation Council, of which we are a member.

“However, the key challenge will be the two-year timeframe the Minister has set to complete a substantial body of work, with 23 projects identified. Our concern is that historically the Civil Aviation Authority has not been able to move at pace, and without the necessary resourcing may struggle to meet that deadline without cutting corners.

“The Association and our members will give the accelerated programme our full support and provide subject matter expertise to the projects identified. But we do not want weaker rules, or unintended operational impacts because the process moves too quickly.

“Nor do we want CAA fees and levies increased to fund extra resources. This work should be delivered within the Authority’s existing baselines and operational reserves. With the burden of jet fuel and avgas costs right now, the industry cannot afford additional cost.”

Mr Wallace says while many of the projects look simple on the surface, the nuances of how the rules affect day-to-day operations across the industry will be critical.

“There are some quick wins in the programme, with some projects able to draw on other jurisdictions’ regulatory frameworks, such as for pilot licensing and overseas parts. This is an efficient way to get things done, but care is needed to ensure any changes are fit for purpose in New Zealand.

Mr Wallace says the Association would be looking at the programme in more detail over the next few days, having only received it within the last 24 hours.

“Once we have a more in-depth understanding of the programme we will be working to identify and provide the right experts to support the work.”

ENDS

For more information contact Alice Taylor | 021 02785648 | alice@latitudesc.co.nz