Air New Zealand described its current fleet situation as "challenging", amid concerns that the A340 aircraft replacement from Hi Fly, required while the carrier's Boeing 787 undergoes maintenance, do not meet the calibre of the rest of the carrier's fleet and inflight product (News Hub, 12-Mar-2018). Air New Zealand said it has been proactively contacting customers who are scheduled on the Hi Fly aircraft to inform them of the difference in the on board experience, and have waived penalty fees for anyone who wants to change their service to one operated with Air New Zealand aircraft. Air New Zealand expects the 787 aircraft to return to normal operations in mid Apr-2018. As previously reported, Hi Fly, earlier this month, announced it is extending its wet lease agreement with Air New Zealand for a fourth consecutive month, operating twice daily Auckland-Sydney and Auckland-Perth services with A340-300 aircraft.
Air New Zealand describes current fleet situation as 'challenging'
12 March, 2018