Air New Zealand welcoming new A321neos

Air New Zealand is preparing for the imminent arrival of its newest Airbus A321neos with the first aircraft expected to touch down in the country on 4 June. Each aircraft will complete a 19,342 kilometre journey to Auckland from the Airbus facility in Hamburg, with stopovers in Muscat, Kuala Lumpur, and Cairns. The A321neos are configured for flying to Australia and the Pacific islands and seat 214 passengers. The aircraft represents the latest innovation in narrowbody jet technology, offering improved efficiency and additional capacity to Air New Zealand’s fleet. This news comesfollowing the airline’s newly retrofitted 787-9 Dreamliners taking to the skies, and follows the announcement of a new jet service connecting Hamilton and Christchurch – all part of the airline’s ongoing investment in its network. The first A321neo arrival, ZK-NNH, is due to enter service in the coming weeks. By the time the second aircraft is flying in a couple of months, the two new additions will be contributing an additional 70,000 seats to the Air New Zealand network each year. Air New Zealand Chief Commercial Officer, Jeremy O’Brien, says the arrival of this new aircraft signals continued momentum for the airline. “These new A321neo are a clear sign we’re investing for the future – boosting our international network and delivering more choice for customers. It’s about doing what we do best: connecting Kiwi to the world and bringing visitors to our shores. We’re eagerly anticipating getting these aircraft in the skies. We can’t wait to share more soon about where they will be flying. Watch this airspace.” These A321neo join Air New Zealand’s growing narrowbody fleet, which means with these additions, there are nine internationally configured A321neo in the fleet. ANZ Captain David Morgan named Officer of New Zealand Order of Merit Air New Zealand announced that Captain David Morgan has been appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours List. This prestigious honour recognises his extraordinary contributions to aviation safety, leadership, and mentoring over more than four decades of service in both in New Zealand and on the global aviation stage. Captain David Morgan Captain Morgan began his journey with Air New Zealand in 1985, becoming the Chief Pilot in 2003. In 2005, he joined the Executive where he remained until earlier this year when he stepped down from his Executive role. David is now about to start flying the airline’s Airbus 320 fleet. Internationally, Morgan’s tenure as Chair of the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Operations Advisory Council, along with contributions to ICAO, have elevated Air New Zealand’s standing on the world stage. Air New Zealand Chief Executive, Greg Foran, says David’s influence is deeply embedded into the airline’s DNA. “When people think of Air New Zealand, many will think of Captain David Morgan. His leadership has helped define who we are today – an airline built on safety, professionalism, and a strong purpose. David has played an extraordinary role shaping a culture of safety, integrity, and professionalism at Air New Zealand that has seen us repeatedly recognised as the world’s safest airline. We’re incredibly proud of David and thrilled to see his remarkable contribution honoured in this way.” Dame Therese Walsh, Chair of Air New Zealand’s Board of Directors, says Morgan’s service has been nothing short of exceptional. “His influence spans every corner of aviation—from safety and sustainability to mentoring the next generation of leaders. He has represented the airline and New Zealand on the global stage countless times and has also worked tirelessly in New Zealand to support young people coming into the industry. This honour not only reflects not just his deep expertise, but also the generosity with which he gives his time to others. On behalf of the Board, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to David for his ongoing service to the airline.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Kay Rolland at [email protected]