New Zealand air travellers should be wary

John Key - National Associate Transport Spokesperson

Representatives from Qantas are expected to meet with the Commerce Commission within the next four weeks, says National’s Associate Transport Spokesperson John Key.

“The reason for the meeting will be to ensure a smooth path through as they negotiate a stake in Air New Zealand. They will want to make sure all barriers are removed relating to any consumer concerns.

“The deal though does raise issues around the flow of inbound tourists, the cost of domestic air travel and freight.

“New Zealand air travellers should be wary as one year on in Australia after the collapse of Ansett, airfares have risen by 15 per cent. Over there at least Virgin still provides competition.

“The Labour Government through their own inadequacy over handling a potential deal with Singapore Airlines has now painted itself into a corner.

“The Qantas deal may be attractive to the Government acting in their own interests as a shareholder but they also need to think of the consumer interests as well,” says Mr Key.

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