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Air New Zealand Ups the Game for Summer Travel

Air New Zealand Ups the Game for Summer Travel
More Premium Seats and Flights to North America and Asia

Premium Cabins Take Flight

Air New Zealand is stepping up for the 2025/26 summer season with bold moves across its long-haul network.

The airline is adding over 34,000 extra seats to North America, including 20,500 premium seats systemwide.

By year-end, seven retrofitted Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners will serve key routes, with another seven joining in 2026.

“These cabins make money,” said Acting Chief Commercial Officer Jeremy O’Brien. “We’re meeting demand with more space, more comfort, and more choice.”

North America: More Seats, More Comfort

Air New Zealand will boost seat capacity to the US and Canada by 8%, with 15% more premium seating.

  • Auckland–Los Angeles: 11–12 weekly flights (Dec–Mar) add 24,000 seats, including 6,800 premium.
  • Auckland–Houston: 4,500 more seats between January and March.
  • Auckland–San Francisco: Daily flights through mid-February; 1,800 additional seats and 2,700 more premium.
  • Auckland–Vancouver: Larger 777-300ER flies during peak snow season; premium seats up 25%.
Asia: Expanding Reach, Elevating Experience

Air New Zealand will also increase capacity and comfort on several Asian routes.

  • Taipei: Fourth weekly flight (Dec–Feb) adds 11,800 seats (27% growth).
  • Bali: Premium seating increases by 49% (2,400 more seats).
  • Hong Kong: Premium cabins expand 28%, adding 3,700 seats.
  • Shanghai: Premium capacity jumps 35% year-on-year.
Strong Demand Fuels Growth

O’Brien said premium leisure travel remains resilient. “A favourable exchange rate and a strong product make it easier to sell,” he added. “As more 787s enter service, customers will enjoy a refreshed and more seamless journey.”

With these upgrades, Air New Zealand is ready to compete with top US carriers and win the premium travel market.