Start Your Engines…Jets Back To Hamilton

Hamilton Airport’s decision to also invest in domestic jet capability has already paid off with the return of local jet services to the airport for the first time in 25 years.

Air New Zealand today confirmed it will operate a 171-seat Airbus A320 on the Hamilton–Christchurch route from 18 September. The two slower and smaller ATR turboprop aircraft currently servicing the route will be redeployed.

The new five-day-a-week jet service marks the first time in 25 years Hamilton has hosted a domestic jet flight. The decision comes just weeks before the airport officially opens its new international terminal in preparation for Jetstar flights to Sydney and the Gold Coast.

As part of the international terminal upgrade, the airport built a new domestic lounge, separate from international facilities. At the same time, it reconfigured the tarmac to allow for more jet aircraft parking.

Waikato Regional Airport Ltd chief executive Mark Morgan said creating a domestic opportunity, while investing in international facilities, has proven to be the right call.

“We were confident domestic jet services would be back, but we’ve been very proactive in working to make that happen. There’s been ongoing discussions with Air New Zealand but this is even faster than we had hoped and is a strong endorsement of the airport. It’s fantastic news,” Morgan said.

The announcement reflects the region's growth and connectivity and acknowledges the growing strength of Hamilton and the greater Waikato, he said.

“A domestic jet service reinforces Hamilton’s role as a key regional hub and gives travellers more choice, more comfort, and faster travel. It’s a significant step forward for regional aviation so yes, we’ll be very happy to see a jet back on our tarmac later this year.”

He was hoping the new service would mean a greater range of fares would be on offer and that other domestic jet services were in the wings, “but those are decisions for airlines.”

“Our job is to create an environment to give airlines confidence, and we’ve done that.”

Jet aircraft provide a smoother and faster journey compared to turboprops. The Airbus A320 also offers more seats, helping meet increasing demand on one of the country’s strongest regional routes.

Hamilton Airport already services 7,300 passengers each week/year and hosts three commercial airlines, Air New Zealand, Origin Air and Sunair. The new jet Air New Zealand service will offer a further 170 seats each week. Seven-day a week international Jetstar services between Hamilton and Australia will begin in mid-June.

The Air New Zealand jet will leave Christchurch at 3pm (arriving at 4.20pm) and return to Christchurch at 5.05pm, arriving at 6.25pm. The service will be offered each Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday. Flights begin in September.

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