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Christchurch Airport is preparing for its busiest international summer season on record, with airline capacity up 15 per cent on last year and surpassing pre-COVID levels.
The summer season officially began on Saturday, November 1, with the arrival of China Southern Airlines from Guangzhou, followed by Cathay Pacific’s return from Hong Kong on Monday, November 3.
Christchurch Airport chief executive Justin Watson says the record schedule reflects strong partnerships with airlines and the appeal of the South Island.
“Airlines are backing the South Island with record capacity, building on the strength of our region, our tourism, and our trade value,” Justin says. “This summer’s schedule gives South Islanders more ways to connect with the world and more opportunities for visitors to experience some of the very best tourism offerings on the planet.”
Major airline highlights
China Southern Airlines is increasing capacity by 29 per cent, offering more than 60,000 seats this summer. The Guangzhou service will ramp up from five flights per week to daily from December 18 to March 3, concluding on March 11 — aligning with Chinese New Year celebrations and marking 10 years since China Southern first flew to Christchurch.
Cathay Pacific is lifting capacity by 24 per cent, bringing forward the start of its Hong Kong service by a month. The airline will operate up to four flights per week from November 3 to March 28, strengthening tourism, trade, and South Island–Asia connections.
Jetstar has expanded Tasman operations by 49 per cent, adding year-round daily services to Melbourne and the Gold Coast, plus improved Cairns schedules connecting onwards to Japan and destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, Bali and Ho Chi Minh City.
Qantas is extending its double daily Brisbane and Melbourne flights and third daily Sydney service into 2026.
Air New Zealand has launched a new seasonal service to Adelaide, which began on October 28, and increased Auckland services to support its international network.
Singapore Airlines will boost its year-round daily service with four additional weekly night flights from November 24, bringing total frequency to 11 per week using A350-900 aircraft.
Boost for South Island tourism and trade
Justin says the additional capacity will generate significant benefits for the South Island economy.
“Every visitor who lands here supports jobs and our economy, and every export shipment taking off from our runway carries the quality and reputation of the South Island to the world,” he says.
Aircraft are expected to depart Christchurch filled with high-value exports including cherries, stone fruit, salmon and shellfish bound for international markets.
Growing demand for premium travel
Christchurch Airport aeronautical development general manager Gordon Bevan says airlines are responding to growing demand for premium seating. “We are seeing an uptick in premium travellers who want to sit in a more comfortable seat from the start of their trip. Having major international airlines with premium economy and business cabins makes that possible.”
Strong regional momentum
Minister for the South Island and associate transport minister James Meager says the new summer schedule shows strong regional momentum.
“This is fantastic news for our tourism operators, growers and regional businesses,” James says. “Christchurch Airport is the South Island’s international gateway — when it grows, our whole island benefits.”
