Air New Zealand boosts flights for CHOGM delegates traveling to Samoa

Policy

Richard Thomson Chief Financial Officer | Air New Zealand

By Sky Industry News

Oct 14, 2024

Between October 14 and October 31, Air New Zealand is increasing its flight capacity to Apia, Samoa's capital, by operating 25 return flights. This increase represents a 29 percent boost compared to typical operations during this period. The move aims to accommodate the heightened demand as Samoa hosts the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

The airline has replaced its narrowbody Airbus aircraft with widebody Boeing aircraft on this route, providing additional seats and more options for premium cabins. As a result, there is an 88 percent increase in premium capacity for the period.

More than 9,000 customers are already booked to travel during this time frame, with at least half of these bookings related to CHOGM. The airline has experienced unprecedented demand, recording 1,800 bookings to Samoa within a week.

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Kiri Hannifin, Air New Zealand's Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer, emphasized the airline's commitment to supporting Samoa. "With increased capacity, we are aiming to facilitate the smooth transportation of CHOGM attendees and other customers during this significant event," she stated.

Hannifin highlighted that passengers from over 50 nations will be traveling with Air New Zealand for CHOGM. "Increasing our services to Apia for CHOGM not only helps to facilitate the event but it also aligns with Air New Zealand's longstanding commitment to support Samoa's connections to the world," she said.

To manage the increased volume of travel effectively, more than 20 Air New Zealand ground staff from airports across Aotearoa will be deployed to Samoa. Hannifin expressed satisfaction in contributing towards CHOGM by transporting attendees and looked forward to a successful event hosted by Samoa.

Additionally, larger aircraft flying into Samoa allow Air New Zealand to meet increased cargo demands during this period.