Air New Zealand to Launch All-Electric Aircraft at Wellington and Marlborough Airports

Wednesday, April 17, 2024

Air New Zealand revealed that Wellington and Marlborough Airports will serve as the hubs for its inaugural all-electric aircraft. The airline had previously disclosed the acquisition of its pioneering next-generation aircraft, the all-electric ALIA CTOL from Beta Technologies, towards the end of last year. Initially, the airline will operate a cargo service exclusively in collaboration with NZ Post.

Wellington Airport is set to become the primary base for this advanced aircraft, whereas Marlborough Airport will also develop the necessary charging facilities to support the aircraft’s power needs for return flights.

Air New Zealand’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Kiri Hannifin says the purpose of the commercial demonstrator is to set the New Zealand aviation system up for introducing lower emissions aircraft.

“We are incredibly grateful to both Wellington and Marlborough airports for being so willing to take on a leadership role in supporting Air New Zealand to establish next generation aircraft capability in our business.

“Their involvement is critical in supporting the infrastructure required to fly next-generation aircraft, and they’ll help lead the way in supporting airports across Aotearoa to make the changes needed for us to fly larger lower-emissions aircraft on our domestic network from 2030.”

Wellington Airport Chief Executive Officer Matt Clarke says hosting the commercial demonstrator is a real coup for the airport, which shares Air New Zealand’s ambition to accelerate the pace of change needed to decarbonise aviation.

“Partnering with Air New Zealand to host the commercial demonstrator is a giant leap for sustainable aviation, providing the basis for all airports to prepare for the next generation of aircraft technology. Our team put their heart and soul into the hosting bid and that same energy will now be focussed on getting this service off the ground.”

Marlborough Airport Chief Executive Officer Dean Heiford says they are proud to partner with Wellington Airport and Air New Zealand to trial the next generation of aviation technology.

“Decarbonising aviation is of global importance, and in New Zealand maintaining regional connectivity through this transition is of national importance.

“This is a big step for us on our own sustainability journey that we wouldn’t have been able to achieve without partnership. We’re looking forward to sharing our learnings with other regional airports across New Zealand.

“Hosting the demonstrator with Wellington will further cement Marlborough as an important hub to keep New Zealand connected across the Cook Strait.”

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