Update Seven: Auckland fuel supply issue

20 September 2017

Update Seven: Auckland fuel supply issue

Air New Zealand’s domestic network is operating largely as normal and the situation is beginning to stablise as the airline manages its way through the impact of Refining New Zealand’s temporary shut-down of its pipeline to Auckland.

Air New Zealand has implemented a range of measures since Sunday in response to the restriction in fuel supply. It now believes the need for further schedule disruptions will ease and has therefore moved to relax restrictions on fare sales.

In addition to cancellations advised to date, tomorrow’s return Auckland-Houston service is the only new cancellation to be confirmed today. This brings the total number of cancellations since Sunday to 41.

Passengers due to travel on the cancelled NZ28 and NZ29 services to or from Houston on 21 September will be accommodated on alternative services and the airline is currently working through the process of notifying customers.

Air New Zealand has also lifted its restriction on long-haul ticket sales for services over the coming days, with some restrictions remaining on selected trans-Tasman and Pacific Island services.

The airline is continuing to implement a range of measures to reduce fuel uplift in Auckland. Today this will include operating an empty Boeing 787-9 to Wellington to be fueled in preparation for this evening’s flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The airline remains in close dialogue with key stakeholders including Government, its agencies and fuel companies. Based on information available at this stage, Air New Zealand believes the fuel supply issue is unlikely to have a material impact on the FY18 annual result.

Cancellations and schedule changes are being communicated directly to affected customers as information becomes available. Media and customers are advised to keep an eye on the Air New Zealand Travel Alerts page for up to date information on affected services.

Customers currently booked to travel into or out of Auckland this week are advised to ensure their contact details have been included in their booking and that they have signed up for travel alerts. Customers not already signed up can do so here. Alternatively customers can download the Air NZ mobile app to view up-to-date details on their bookings and be notified of any flight changes.

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