Qantas increases summer flights between Australia and New Zealand
Qantas is increasing the number of flights between Australia and New Zealand by up to 20% throughout December and January, the airline has announced.
Qantas Airlines said that around 60,000 additional seats will be available to cross the Tasman compared to the same time last year.
Wellington Airport chief executive Matt Clarke said this is "great news" for travellers because it means more competition and choice at the busiest time of the year.
"This follows increases to the Melbourne service and an upgraded Brisbane service. In total, Qantas will be operating 65% more seats for December and January than they were before the pandemic."
Sydney to Auckland will have up to six additional flights per week on top of the current schedule of 35 per week.
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Wellington will have an additional five flights to Sydney a week and Christchurch will have up to seven extra flights a week to the city.
Christchurch Airport chief executive Justin Watson said that news shows Qantas recognises the "strength of the Christchurch and South Island market".
Qantas in Christchurch (Source: Christchurch Airport)
"These extra flights are a win for tourism, trade and travel. They'll help businesses thrive and give Kiwis even more options."
Flights to Melbourne are increasing by seven for Auckland, three for Christchurch and two for Queenstown.
Brisbane to Queenstown will have an additional three flights per week.
The new flights have also been timed to connect with Qantas' international services, said Christchurch Airport, "offering travellers super convenient links to destinations across Asia and Europe".
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In addition to adding more flights for routes between Australia and New Zealand, Qantas will increase premium seat choices for customers by up to 80%.
Tourism New Zealand regional director Andrew Waddel said 'we welcome the increase in capacity from Qantas and look forward to our Australian friends experiencing all Aotearoa New Zealand has to offer".
New Qantas routes
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