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The New Zealand Airports Association has welcomed the Government’s accelerated civil aviation rules programme, describing it as a significant step for regulatory modernisation.
The programme, announced by Associate Transport Minister James Meager, aims to deliver 23 civil aviation rules projects over two years — work the association says would normally take far longer under existing processes.
Sector welcomes faster reform
New Zealand Airports Association chief executive Billie Moore says the initiative could reshape how aviation reform is delivered.
“The programme represents a step-change in the pace and ambition of aviation rules reform.
“It has the potential to set a new model for how government and industry can work together to get the job done.”
Billie says safety must remain the foundation of the aviation system, but outdated rules can also create risks and unnecessary costs.
“Safety and efficiency are not in tension. Outdated rules create their own risks, and a backlog of reform has real costs for passengers, operators, and New Zealand’s connectivity.”
Airport priorities included
The association says the programme addresses several long-standing airport priorities involving safety, security and infrastructure investment.
Billie says runway end safety area requirements remain the sector’s top issue, with consultation already underway.
She also welcomed the inclusion of runway strip widths in the reform package, along with wider sector measures such as pilot licensing changes and recognition of overseas aircraft maintenance approvals.
The latter could help reduce costs for airlines operating in New Zealand.
Industry input pledged
Billie says the airports sector has been involved in groundwork leading to the programme and is ready to assist with implementation.
“NZ Airports has been part of the groundwork that made this programme possible, and our members are ready to contribute the sector expertise that will make it succeed.
“Minister Meager and the Civil Aviation Authority deserve huge credit for moving this from aspiration to action.”
