Associate Transport Minister, James Meager says New Zealand’s international aviation links and resilience will be significantly strengthened by a move to make RNZAF Base Ohakea available as an alternative 24/7 runway for wide body aircraft.
The Government has approved $4.57 million in funding for Airways New Zealand to provide round-the-clock air traffic control at the airport.
Mr Meager said the commitment resolves a long-standing constraint for airlines and one which has been “a handbrake” on New Zealand’s economic growth.
“Under aviation safety rules, commercial flights must nominate an alternate runway in case their destination airport is closed due to weather or another event,” he said.
“Currently, Ohakea can’t be used as an alternate airport overnight when flights need to divert, due to the lack of air traffic control services. Our investment in round-the-clock air traffic control will mean an alternate landing option for large international aircraft unable to land at Auckland or Christchurch.
“This simple solution increases the commercial viability of flying to New Zealand for major airlines. Aircraft can carry less fuel and fly these routes with full passenger and freight loads. This directly benefits our tourism operators, exporters and regional economies and is yet another example of how we are fixing the basics and building the future.”
This decision marks the completion of a key action of the Aviation Action Plan, launched in September last year, which contains 25 actions to grow and future-proof the sector.
“With these practical solutions, we’re reducing the barriers and costs for airlines and the sector, signalling New Zealand is open for business to international trade and tourism while strengthening resilience, growing our workforce and supporting long term growth,” said Ms Meager.
The extended air traffic control service is expected to be operational within 18 months, after new staff have been recruited and trained.
