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Air New Zealand has introduced its 30th ATR aircraft into service, with the registration ZK-MZG. The aircraft commenced operations on January 16, flying from Christchurch to Invercargill. This new addition arrived in New Zealand on December 29, 2024, after a journey of over 20,000 kilometers from Toulouse, France. The route included stops in Heraklion, Riyadh, Oman, Hyderabad, Kuala Lumpur, Denpasar, Darwin, and Brisbane before reaching Christchurch.
Baden Smith, Air New Zealand's General Manager of Strategy, Networks and Fleet highlighted the significance of this addition: "The ATR is a fantastic aircraft and the backbone of our domestic network for regional customers. It performs exceptionally well in New Zealand's unique operating conditions with its fuel efficiency, reliability and ability to access smaller airports. The aircraft's versatility ensures we can maintain a robust and resilient service connecting our communities across the motu efficiently."
Smith further emphasized the importance of this milestone for Air New Zealand: "Introducing our 30th ATR 72-600 into service is a milestone for Air New Zealand. The addition of this aircraft will provide vital support for our turboprop fleet helping provide maintenance flexibility and helping maintain the reliability of our services for regional customers."
