Air New Zealand faces backlash over rising airfares

Air New Zealand is under growing scrutiny as passengers express frustration over soaring airfares. The airline has blamed the rise in ticket prices on inflation pressures and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chief Financial Officer Richard Thomson said non-fuel operating costs have risen approximately 5%, contributing to an overall inflation impact of 25% to 30% over the past five years.

Consumer NZ, an independent, non-profit organization advocating for consumer rights since 1959, reports that domestic flight prices have surged between 34% and 297% compared to pre-pandemic levels. For many travelers, the rising cost of flying with Air New Zealand has become unaffordable.
They have called for a government inquiry into its pricing practices. Additionally, the Commerce Commission is investigating whether Air New Zealand has breached the Fair Trading Act, particularly in how it communicates delays and cancellations.

Thomson expressed regret that air travel is becoming inaccessible for some and emphasized that the airline is working to control costs while remaining economically viable. He also noted that operating in a geographically complex country the size of Japan but with the population of Sydney presents additional financial challenges.