AIANZ calls for national focus on regional connectivity

The Aviation Industry Association of New Zealand is urging a renewed national focus on regional air connectivity following Air Chathams’ decision to suspend its Auckland–Kapiti Coast service from 31 July.

AIANZ Chief Executive Simon Wallace said the move, while not unexpected, is a disappointing example of the growing pressures facing regional aviation.

“This route provided a valuable connection for the Kapiti Coast community, and its loss highlights the challenges of maintaining regional services under current settings,” Simon said. 

Simon pointed to rising operational costs — including fuel, maintenance, airport fees, and regulatory charges — as key factors impacting viability.

“Routes like this are often operating on very marginal economics, and increasing costs are making them harder to sustain,” he said.

AIANZ notes that the Aviation Council is currently reviewing aviation charges across the system, and says this work is critical to understanding how cost structures affect regional connectivity.

“This is not about one route — it’s about the broader system,” Simon said. “If New Zealand wants strong regional connectivity, we need to look closely at how aviation is funded and supported.”

The association is calling for a coordinated, long-term approach to ensure regional communities remain connected and the aviation sector remains sustainable.

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