Pacific Blue’s First Aircraft Arrives In NZ

Pacific Blue’s First Aircraft Arrives In NZ

Countdown To Touchdown As Low Fare Airline Gears Up For Launch

The eagerly awaited first Pacific Blue aircraft touched down at Christchurch International Airport, heralding the arrival of the first sexy red jet to the airline’s New Zealand base.

The aircraft was ferried from Brisbane, Australia under the command of Pacific Blue’s Flight Standards Manager Captain Bob Mahon and First Officer Chris Thoresen, who both labelled the flight a major milestone for Pacific Blue.

The first group of Pacific Blue’s Cabin Crew were also on board to experience the exciting step, having spent five weeks in Australia flying “on line” with their Virgin Blue counterparts, so they can transfer their experience and “virgin flair” to Pacific Blue.

The ferry flight signalled the end of their comprehensive training and their return home, ahead of Pacific Blue’s launch later this month.

Pacific Blue Chief Executive Tony Marks, said, “The arrival of our very first aircraft has great significance for us. There are two milestones that we have been really looking forward to – one being the first commercial flight and the other being the first time the Pacific Blue aircraft touches down on New Zealand soil.”

The aircraft is one of four Boeing 737-800’s that Virgin Blue purchased straight off the production line and is the first aircraft to fly in the Pacific Blue livery. The remaining Pacific Blue aircraft are to be delivered in the coming months.

Pacific Blue will take off for the first time on Thursday January 29, operating a daily service between Christchurch and Brisbane. The low fare/high service airline will extend services shortly after to include direct Christchurch-Melbourne flights as well as direct services between Wellington and Sydney.

The aircraft will now undergo final preparations for its first commercial flight, including being issued with a NZ registration.

“The momentum is building amongst the Pacific Blue team as we gear up to provide the New Zealand travelling public with a new, exciting and affordable Trans Tasman option”, finished Tony Marks.

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