Air New Zealand will operate trans-Tasman services to Sydney and Melbourne over the peak period this summer, with Brisbane services likely to continue seasonally next winter.
"I am pleased we've been able to continue trans-Tasman services from Dunedin and thank the Otago community for their support," says Air New Zealand General Manager Tasman Pacific Airline Glen Sowry.
"Our forecasting data indicates that in the current economic environment there is sufficient demand in the upcoming Northern Winter schedule (October - March) to sustain seasonal trans-Tasman services from Dunedin to Sydney and Melbourne.
The following return services will be operated:
Dunedin - Sydney
Operating twice per week on Monday and Friday between 4 Dec 2009 - 29 Jan 2010
Sydney - Dunedin 0930/1440
Dunedin - Sydney 1540/1710
Dunedin - Melbourne
Operating once per week on Thursday between 17 Dec 2009 - 28 Jan 2010
Melbourne - Dunedin 0935/1455
Dunedin - Melbourne 1555/1735
The seasonal Dunedin - Brisbane service will continue to operate twice per week (once per week in May/June) until its scheduled conclusion on 10 October 2009. At this stage, expectations for this service are that it would operate again during the peak winter months in 2010, subject to market conditions.
"A decision on services for the Northern Summer operating schedule from April - October 2010 will be made towards the end of this year, although it is our intention that we could retain these services and hopefully expand them again if customer demand supports this," says Mr Sowry
"Our confidence in continuing to offer services to Sydney and Melbourne has been based on improved bookings as a result of recent reductions in long-term airfare levels by nearly 20% to $239 one way, and a significantly increased investment in marketing in the region.
"The reductions on our Tasman network are not unique to Dunedin, with changes to frequency and capacity occurring across a number of routes as a result of less people flying in the current economic climate.
"We're determined to make trans-Tasman services from Dunedin a success and I hope we continue to get the support of the region and see all three trans-Tasman routes grow."
Ends
Issued by Air New Zealand Public Affairs, phone 09 336 2761
NOTE: The content of all Air New Zealand media releases are accurate at the time of issue, as stated at the top of each release. For updates on any changes, please contact Air New Zealand.
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