The Government has unveiled a new Aviation Action Plan aimed at growing and future-proofing New Zealand’s aviation sector.
Associate Transport Minister James Meager launched the plan this morning at the Aviation Industry Association Conference in Wellington.
“Aviation is vital to New Zealand’s economic prosperity and our way of life. The Aviation Action Plan outlines a strategic programme of work to ensure the sector continues to support trade, tourism, regional connectivity and economic growth across the country,” Meager said.
“This action plan is a first for New Zealand and represents a major sector milestone. It’s a practical roadmap that tackles challenges facing aviation, including the need to embrace growth and innovation, and build a skilled and sustainable workforce.”
The plan, developed by the Interim Aviation Council in partnership with government, sets out 25 actions for the sector.
Key moves include:
- Reworking some civil aviation rules to promote innovation, speed up regulatory decisions, cut certification wait times and automate routine processes.
- Developing programmes to address workforce shortages, including updating pilot and engineer training, promoting aviation careers, and pushing for international recognition of licences.
- Making RNZAF Base Ohakea permanently available as an alternative runway for widebody aircraft.
- Strengthening passenger rights and improving accessibility for disabled travellers.
- Supporting small regional airlines with concessionary loans and investment in interline arrangements to keep key routes running.
Meager said progress had already been made on some actions, including $30 million in loans for regional routes through the Regional Infrastructure Fund and a full funding review of the Civil Aviation Authority.
“This plan includes long-term steps to continue building momentum, including confirmation we will establish the Aviation Council as a permanent body. I’d like to thank the Interim Aviation Council for its leadership and expertise, and I look forward to working with the new permanent Council.”
