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TCS partners with Air New Zealand
Greg Foran, Chief Executive Officer, Air New Zealand and K. Krithivasan, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, TCS 2. Image Courtesy: Air New Zealand This collaboration aims to enhance Air New Zealand’s digital capabilities, improve customer experience, and drive operational efficiencies across various aspects of its business Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a global leader in IT services, consulting, and business solutions, has signed a five-year partnership with Air New Zealand to modernize the airline’s digital infrastructure and position it at the forefront of AI-driven innovation. This collaboration aims to enhance Air New Zealand’s digital capabilities, improve customer experience, and drive operational efficiencies across various aspects of its business, including fleet management, crew scheduling, and ground services. Announced at a formal signing event at TCS’ Banyan Park Campus in Mumbai, the agreement supports Air New Zealand’s vision to become the world’s most digitally advanced airline. The event was attended by New Zealand Prime Minister the Right Honourable Christopher Luxon, Tata Group Chairman, Natarajan Chandrasekaran, Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Greg Foran, and TCS Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director K. Krithivasan. This partnership strengthens TCS’ commitment to New Zealand, where it has been a trusted partner for digital transformation for over 37 years, driving innovation across industries. With an office in Auckland and a team of 460 professionals, TCS serves 20+ blue-chip customers in the region across banking, retail, construction, manufacturing, and local government. Through the TCS Co-Innovation NetworkTM (COIN™), the organization works closely with top universities in New Zealand to advance research in cybersecurity, sustainability, and AI. TCS also led the development of the Asia Pacific Digital Sustainability Index in 2022, shaping the region’s approach to sustainable digital transformation. Beyond business, TCS is committed to fostering digital talent in New Zealand. Its flagship STEM empowerment programs, goITTM and goITTM Girls in the region are inspiring students to pursue careers in technology and innovation. Greg Foran, Chief Executive Officer, Air New Zealand, said: “Leveraging TCS’ expertise in cutting-edge technologies will help us enhance the customer experience, streamline operations, and reinforce our commitment to cybersecurity and data protection. This collaboration aligns with our vision to be a digitally enabled airline of the future. We began working with TCS in September 2024 and in just a few short months, we’ve seen the benefits of tapping into the depth and breadth of talent and expertise they have when it comes to digital solutions. Going forward, TCS will be an instrumental partner in helping us deliver our Cargo Digital Transformation and improvements to our Digital Retail capability. We’re excited about the benefits this partnership will bring for our customers and the aviation industry.” Krithivasan, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, TCS, said: “We are excited to partner with Air New Zealand in its journey to become a digitally advanced airline. With our expertise in aviation, combined with our ability to drive large-scale innovation, TCS will enable Air New Zealand to set new benchmarks for efficiency, sustainability, and customer engagement. By leveraging AI, automation, and cloud technologies, we aim to reimagine operations, enhance passenger experiences, and build a more agile and resilient airline. This partnership reflects our commitment to helping global enterprises adapt, grow, and unlock new opportunities through technology." Air New Zealand operates a global network offering air passenger and cargo services across 49 domestic and international destinations. Each year, the airline flies more than 15 million passengers on over 3,400 weekly flights. This transformation marks a significant step in Air New Zealand’s commitment to secure, innovative, and technology-driven experiences for travelers worldwide. TCS will streamline Air New Zealand’s digital services across a diverse landscape of more than 600 applications, by integrating AI-driven automation and cloud technologies into critical airline functions. This will drive innovation across cargo service, disruption management, retail offerings, maintenance systems and crew operations. Workforce transformation will also be a key focus of this engagement, with TCS leading large-scale upskilling programs to strengthen digital capabilities across Air New Zealand’s teams in AI, cybersecurity, and digital engineering. The collaboration also includes enhancements to Air New Zealand’s digital retail and loyalty program experiences. With three decades of leadership in aviation, TCS partners with the world’s leading airlines, offering consulting-led approaches, cognitive-powered portfolio of business, and technology and engineering services. TCS leverages industry-specific solutions, like TCS Aviana™, a unified, autonomous, digital, cloud-ready platform for intelligent airline operations. Its contextual understanding of airline operations, coupled with its AI-led technology capabilities, will help Air New Zealand unlock new growth opportunities and drive innovation across its entire business ecosystem.
Air New Zealand codeshares with Air India
Star Alliance Partners Air New Zealand and Air India today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the objective of boosting air connectivity between India and New Zealand. The MoU was signed at an event in Mumbai in the presence of Honourable Prime Minister of New Zealand, Mr Christopher Luxon, and other dignitaries. The MoU includes the establishment of a new codeshare partnership on 16 routes between India, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand, conferring travellers more choice and convenient access between the two countries. Customers will now be able to travel from the Indian cities of Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Chennai on Air India, and connect at Sydney, Melbourne or Singapore onto Air New Zealand-operated flights to Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington and Queenstown. Besides improving customers’ ease of booking and travel, the codeshare aims to increase visibility of the respective markets as tourism destinations. The MoU will also see Air New Zealand and Air India explore the introduction of a direct service between India and New Zealand by the end of 2028, subject to new aircraft deliveries and approvals from relevant government regulators. Air New Zealand Chief Executive Greg Foran emphasised the strategic significance of India as a future destination, highlighting its rapidly expanding tourism market and increasing travel demand.“India represents a key growth market for Air New Zealand, and we are excited about the opportunity to enhance connectivity for travellers between our two countries. This codeshare agreement is an important first step, offering more options for customers while we work to understand what a direct service could look like. “Today’s event underscores the significance of the India market to New Zealand, not only for tourism but also for strengthening business and education ties. We are committed to working collaboratively to grow the travel market over the coming years, ensuring a strong foundation for a successful direct service by 2028,” said Foran. Campbell Wilson, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Air India, said: “As part of Air India’s ongoing transformation, we have been expanding our global network using our own aircraft as well as through new or expanded codeshare agreements with other airlines, chiefly our Star Alliance partners. We are delighted to be deepening our relationship with Air New Zealand, which follows the recent expansion of our codeshare partnerships with Lufthansa Group, Singapore Airlines, and All Nippon Airways. This partnership will not only strengthen our presence and simplify customer journeys, but also help us develop traffic so that, in time to come, we may viably operate a non-stop service between India and New Zealand, which we and Air New Zealand have committed to explore together with the respective authorities.” With India emerging as a growing tourism and business hub, this partnership reflects the airline’s commitment to delivering enhanced travel experiences while supporting trade, tourism, and economic growth. Currently, Air New Zealand customers travelling between New Zealand and India benefit from strong connectivity options via Singapore Airlines, offering a smooth transit through Singapore. The prospect of a future direct route would further strengthen the relationship between the two countries, providing more efficient and accessible travel opportunities. The MoU also outlines Tourism New Zealand’s commitment to growing inbound tourism from the Indian market. Tourism New Zealand’s research shows that 18 million people in New Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai are actively considering traveling to New Zealand, making it a key emerging market. More than 80,000 international travellers arrived from India last year, 23% more than in 2019. The long-term growth potential is significant, with India ear-marked as one of the fastest-growing outbound travel markets. Indian travellers are keen to explore New Zealand’s vibrant landscapes, film sets and rich cultural opportunities. Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Rene de Monchy said: “It's fantastic to see Air New Zealand and Air India working on stronger international connectivity between the two countries. We know improved aviation links have a crucial role to play in the growth of international tourism and will make it easier for Indian travellers to come and enjoy a holiday in New Zealand. “An added bonus is that travellers from India also have a strong tendency to visit New Zealand in the off-peak months that coincide with their major holiday periods." The codeshare flights will be available for booking progressively, subject to due regulatory approvals.
Air New Zealand’s Greg Foran to step down
Air New Zealand announced that its chief executive Greg Foran will be stepping down after five years at its helm, though he will be staying on until October. The announcement was made today, 6th March, in the wake of Air New Zealand’s ongoing struggles over global supply chain disruptions, as well as issues regarding engine maintenance. Airline chair Dame Therese Walsh expressed gratitude for Foran’s leadership especially through a slew of challenging times. Walsh said: "While these challenges impact our operations almost daily, Greg's relentless focus and global profile have been instrumental in mitigating the consequential disruptions on our customers.” Air New Zealand has not, as yet, named a successor for Foran, though it has initiated a global search for its next CEO. Leadership in demanding times Foran led the Kiwi flag-carrier throughout some of the most turbulent times in its history. In recent years, the airline faced numerous challenges unique to New Zealand, mostly due to its location on the globe. The outgoing chief executive joined the airline just as a global pandemic came into play, and his tenure was marked by equipment shortages, as well as the grounding of a significant number of aircraft. Foran has also steered the company through greater regional competition from the likes of Qantas and Virgin Australia, and was the one who ordered the retrofit for Air New Zealand’s Dreamliners; the latter is set for completion later this year.
AAPA welcomes Air New Zealand as member
The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) announced that Air New Zealand has joined AAPA with immediate effect. “We are delighted that Air New Zealand is joining AAPA. Air New Zealand’s important role in connecting New Zealand to the world and its strong international outlook will reinforce the collective advocacy of airlines in the Asia Pacific region in areas such as sustainability, supply chain recovery and smooth cross border travel,” said Subhas Menon, Director General of AAPA. Greg Foran, the Chief Executive Officer of Air New Zealand, said, “Aviation is a complex and evolving industry, with airlines around the world navigating similar challenges and opportunities in the coming decades. Joining the AAPA will ensure we can share learnings with our regional counterparts, to ensure a thriving Asia Pacific aviation industry into the future.”
Air New Zealand: “2024 was a busy year for us”
Air New Zealand reports that 2024 proved to be yet another monumental year, hitting numerous milestones as it gears up to celebrate its 85th anniversary. Airline CEO Greg Foran expressed gratitude to everyone who travelled with Air New Zealand in 2024 whilst acknowledging the hard work and dedication of his team both on the ground and in the air. Foran said: “Our Air New Zealanders’ professionalism and grit kept the airline moving, even while navigating significant challenges such as ongoing engine availability issues.” He also pointed out that, despite such issues, the airline hit several major milestones in 2024, including its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner state-of-the-art interior retrofitting in Singapore. A year of significant achievements In 2024, the airline's 23rd safety video Every Point Counts featuring Kiwi basketball star Steven Adams was released and became an instant hit, amassing 30.4 million views globally. At the same time, Airpoints membership soared in 2024, with 414,000 new members joining, bringing the total to 4.8 million. Nearly 300,000 items were sold on the Airpoints Store, with the Huski Beer Cooler emerging as the most popular product. With regard to travel trends, Auckland to Sydney was the most popular short-haul route, while Auckland to Singapore topped long-haul travel. Bali continued to dominate as a holiday hotspot, with Air New Zealand expanding its service to a year-round schedule. 2024 also saw the introduction of Live Chat which offered a new way for customers to get in touch, resulting in 265,936 engagements. This was also the year when the Mangōpare Air New Zealand Pilot Cadetship received more than 2000 applications for its inaugural intake, with 30 cadets selected to begin their training journey. Another milestone year This year, Air New Zealand prepares to celebrate its 85th birthday which happens this April. For this, Foran says the airline remains deeply committed to connecting New Zealanders with each other and New Zealand to the world. He said: "Here's to building on this legacy and achieving many more milestones in the years ahead."
Air New Zealand’s Journey Towards Electric Aviation Takes Flight
Air New Zealand’s dream of flying its first electric aircraft around Aotearoa is taking a significant step forward. From April 2025, the airline will begin a technical demonstrator programme with a battery-electric aircraft, the ALIA CX300, based in Hamilton and Wellington. A Leap Towards a Greener Future The ALIA CX300 aircraft, manufactured by US partner BETA Technologies, is set to arrive in New Zealand one year before the airline’s commercial cargo services between Wellington and Blenheim begin in 2026. This early arrival will allow Air New Zealand to understand how this cutting-edge technology performs in local conditions, provide crucial pilot and crew training, and share this exciting advancement with New Zealanders. Initially based at Hamilton Airport, the ALIA CX300 will undergo a series of proving flights before expanding to other airports and eventually making its way to Wellington. These flights are designed to replicate the cargo operations planned for 2026 in collaboration with New Zealand Post. Embracing Innovation and Sustainability Kiri Hannifin, Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer expressed enthusiasm about this milestone: “We’re thrilled to be moving into the next generation of aviation. This future is one where we can fulfil our purpose to connect New Zealanders but with much lower emissions—something we are deeply committed to expediting as quickly as we can to help meet our 2050 net-zero carbon emissions target. The technology behind this aircraft is incredible, and we’re very proud to be able to bring it to Aotearoa a little earlier to show the country what the future of domestic air travel will look like.” Hannifin highlighted that while the aircraft won’t operate commercially at first, it will provide a valuable opportunity for the airline and the wider New Zealand aviation community to gain insights into this innovative addition to the fleet. Collaborative Efforts and Practical Innovations BETA’s Founder and CEO, Kyle Clark, praised Air New Zealand’s practical, operations-focused approach. “They have learned in, working with us step by step to set solid foundations across every part of the ecosystem to ensure successful entry into service. The Tech Demonstrator and chargers will allow us to collect data and refine the operations so Air New Zealand can hit the ground running with low-cost electric service upon delivery of their first certified aircraft,” said Clark. Air New Zealand has invested in charging facilities to support the operation through its Climate and Nature Fund. 60kW mobile chargers will be based at Hamilton, Wellington, and Blenheim airports, capable of recharging the aircraft in approximately 90 minutes. Conclusion As Air New Zealand takes significant strides towards a sustainable aviation future, the arrival of the ALIA CX300 marks a pivotal moment in the airline’s journey. This initiative underscores the airline’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, setting the stage for a greener future in domestic air travel. Stay tuned for more updates as Air New Zealand brings the future of aviation to Aotearoa’s skies.
Virgin Australia and Air New Zealand Reunite to Enhance Travel Experiences
The long-awaited reunion between Virgin Australia and Air New Zealand is officially here, bringing enhanced travel options and seamless experiences for passengers crossing the Tasman. Under the new codeshare agreement, travellers can now book Virgin Australia flights operated by Air New Zealand with a VA flight number to Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch for travel starting from 9 December 2024. These flights are in addition to Virgin Australia’s existing services to Queenstown. Benefits for Virgin Australia Guests and Velocity Frequent Flyers This partnership offers a variety of benefits and rewards for Virgin Australia guests and Velocity Frequent Flyer members when booking and travelling on approximately 300 services between Australia and New Zealand each week. These benefits include: Earning Velocity Points and Status Credits Lounge access for Velocity Gold and Platinum members Seamless customer experience with baggage transfer and boarding passes issued for the entire journey Velocity Gold and Platinum Status entitlements, including an additional checked bag, priority check-in, and priority boarding Exclusive discounts and benefits for Virgin Australia Business Flyers and corporate customers Alistair Hartley, Virgin Australia’s Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, highlighted the significance of this partnership: “The connection between Australia and New Zealand has always been deeper than just a stretch of ocean, and our new partnership with Air New Zealand celebrates that enduring bond. This codeshare agreement isn’t just about flights – it’s about creating seamless travel experiences that give Virgin Australia customers more ways to explore, connect, and adventure.” Enhanced Travel Options and Kiwi Hospitality Air New Zealand’s General Manager Australia, Kathryn O’Brien, emphasised the ease of travel this partnership brings: “Whether it’s for a weekend with friends and family, a business trip, or simply an excuse to experience some breathtaking scenery, this partnership seamlessly opens up more opportunities and destinations across New Zealand. From today, we’re excited to extend a big Kia ora to Virgin Australia customers onboard and deliver our signature Kiwi hospitality, giving them a taste of Aotearoa at 30,000 feet.” Routes Included in the Codeshare Agreement The following routes are available for travel from 9 December 2024: Sydney <> Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington Adelaide <> Auckland Brisbane <> Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington Melbourne <> Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington Gold Coast <> Auckland, Christchurch Perth <> Auckland Seasonal routes: Cairns <> Auckland, Hobart <> Auckland, Sunshine Coast <> Auckland Virgin Australia flights operated by Air New Zealand (with a VA flight number) are currently on sale and will begin operating from 9 December 2024. This partnership marks a significant step forward in providing enhanced travel experiences and greater access to destinations across New Zealand for Virgin Australia passengers.
Air New Zealand offers more rewards for Airpoints members
Air New Zealand announced fresh updates to its Airpoints loyalty programme, offering new perks members can look forward to. As of press time, Air New Zealand Airpoints members are now collectively earning over one million Airpoints Dollars a day. With new ways to earn and innovative opportunities to spend recently introduced, Airpoints’ 4.7 million members will be enjoying an even more rewarding experience as the largest loyalty programme in Aotearoa introduced new partners and offerings earlier this year. On the up Air New Zealand general manager for loyalty Kate O'Brien says that, since the launch of the new revamped online Airpoints experience in August, the airline has been on an ambitious ascent to improve the offering. O’Brien said: “Over the past few months, we’ve rolled out updates to bring even more perks to our members. With new partnerships like Everyday Rewards, enhanced earning potential in the Airpoints Store, and platform upgrades, we’re ensuring members have more opportunities to rack up Airpoints Dollars at every turn. She added that the airline is also working on new ways to bring even more benefits to Airpoints members, with a new tier to reward our most frequent fliers on the flight path for the future. With Airpoints benefits reaching new heights, loyal Air New Zealand customers can earn and burn their rewards more ways than ever. New for the neighbourhood This month, Air New Zealand has put Shairpoints front and centre with a new campaign highlighting the unique feature. Shairpoints now allows members to pool their Airpoints Dollars with up to ten friends and whānau, making it easier to achieve those dream travel goals together. The expansion to allow even more members to pool points aims to bring those dream adventures within reach for travellers. Starting 2 December, members of Air New Zealand's Airpoints programme can convert their Everyday Rewards points into Airpoints Dollars, simplifying the journey towards their next getaway. With a conversion rate of 2,000 Everyday Rewards points equating to 15 Airpoints Dollars, this new partnership unlocks faster and more rewarding travel possibilities. Members can also earn Airpoints Dollars when they purchase products on the Airpoints Store. This new feature ensures that every shopping experience contributes towards earning Airpoints Dollars, providing even more opportunities to accumulate rewards. Members will earn 1 Airpoints Dollar for every $100 cash spent in the Airpoints Store, which can go towards their next holiday or purchase.
Isla Fisher stars in Air New Zealand’s latest Australia campaign
Air New Zealand unveiled its new campaign in the Australian market, enlisting an Aussie A-lister and loyal fan of the airline to highlight the benefits of the Kiwi carrier for Australians travelling across the Tasman. Starring Isla Fisher, the campaign highlights Air New Zealand’s commitment to exceptional service and fantastic onboard experiences. Coupled with Fisher's iconic humour and charm, the campaign leans into Air New Zealand's love of fun to bring an entertaining moment to Aussie screens. Air New Zealand currently operates more than 150 return flights weekly between Australia and New Zealand, connecting travellers to Auckland, Wellington, Queenstown, and Christchurch. From there, passengers can seamlessly connect on to one of the 20 domestic locations the airline flies to or continue to one of its long haul destinations across Asia, the USA, and Canada. Finding a friend on a flight Somewhere over the Tasman follows the journey of a young Kiwi girl travelling solo across the ditch, who happens to sit next to the Hollywood star. The pair quickly become friends, sharing in-flight snacks, watching movies, and enjoying the famous Air New Zealand hospitality. Air New Zealand general manager for Australia Kathryn O’Brien says the airline is excited to launch this new campaign for its Aussie customers as part of its enduring commitment to the Australian market. O’Brien said: “We’re thrilled to bring this campaign to Australians showcasing Air New Zealand's ability to deliver an unrivalled onboard experience. From the outset, we knew we needed to work with someone who could capture our sense of fun and entertaining spirit, while also resonating with the Australian audience. Who better than the iconic AACTA Award winning actress, Isla Fisher? Partnering with Isla allows us to showcase the warm and down-to-earth approach to service we are known and loved for while also showing why we are the airline of choice for seamless connections to New Zealand and beyond.”
Air New Zealand presents its 23rd inflight safety video
Air New Zealand began screening its 23rd inflight safety video aboard flights on Thursday, 14th November. Titled Every Point Counts the video features basketball star and Kiwi icon Steven Adams, as well as a host of iconic celebrities like comedian Tom Sainsbury who does double duty as both coach and referee, sports broadcaster Andrew Mulligan on commentary, TikTok star Theo Shakes as an audience member, and a special cameo from Steven’s sister and Olympic legend, Dame Valerie Adams. In the video, Steven takes on a group of Kiwi kids in a friendly basketball game, with tension growing as it comes down to the wire on the court. An true honour Adams said it was an honour to star in Air New Zealand’s safety video and he enjoyed the opportunity to do it alongside some very special whānau. He said: “It was awesome to be part of a project that involved young people and the community. It was fun to have Val in the video too. As a younger brother, at first, I was like ‘Man, get out of my video!’ But it’s cool to do a family collab: it was a special moment.” Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran added that the airline is always on the ball when it comes to safety and its latest video aims to be both informative and entertaining. Foran said: “We’re thrilled to have Kiwi icon Steven Adams join the Air New Zealand safety video whānau. His journey from Rotorua to the bright lights of international basketball has inspired countless fans to chase their dreams, making him the perfect fit to take to the court in the leading role. We know an entertaining safety video is what our customers want. So, we’ve done just that. Basketball as a sport is synonymous with entertainment, so it gave us plenty of shots at creating fun, engaging content.”
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