Sichuan Airlines to Resume Flights to Auckland, Boosting Tourism

Chinese carrier Sichuan Airlines will resume non-stop flights between Chengdu and Auckland, starting on December 7, 2023. This year-round service, which will operate twice weekly, is anticipated to bring over 22,000 visitors to New Zealand annually, significantly impacting the local economy.

The airline’s modern Airbus A350-900 will operate the route, which had been previously suspended in April 2023 after a weekly flight pattern. Flights will depart from Chengdu Tianfu International Airport on Thursdays and Sundays at 01:30, arriving at Auckland International Airport at 18:40. The return flights will leave Auckland at 22:00, taking approximately 12 hours and 35 minutes, with an expected arrival back in Chengdu at 05:35 the following day.

Economic Impact and Tourism Growth

The resumption of this route is set to inject around NZ$130 million (approximately $75 million) into New Zealand’s tourism sector. Additionally, the service is expected to generate NZ$150 million (roughly $87 million) in cargo capacity, which will aid in supporting both imports and exports in the region.

New Zealand’s Tourism and Hospitality Minister, Louise Upston, expressed optimism about the renewed service, highlighting its importance for both tourism and business ties between New Zealand and China. She stated, “This new service will strengthen airline connectivity for both tourism and business between New Zealand and China. Improved aviation connectivity is an important part of our tourism growth roadmap.”

Enhanced Connectivity and Future Prospects

With Sichuan Airlines returning, there will be more than 50 weekly flights connecting China to New Zealand, operated by six different carriers. Besides Sichuan Airlines, other airlines such as Air New Zealand, China Eastern, China Southern, and Hainan Airlines also offer direct links to various cities in China.

This expanded connectivity not only facilitates travel for tourists but also opens pathways for business engagements. Scott Tasker, Chief Customer Officer at Auckland Airport, noted that the resumed flights will provide easier access for travelers to explore the Sichuan province and its many attractions.

Additionally, there are ongoing discussions about potential direct flights from Wellington to China, following a recent Memorandum of Understanding between Wellington Airport and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. This could further enhance connections and opportunities for tourism and trade.

As travel rebounds post-pandemic, the return of Sichuan Airlines is seen not only as a win for tourism but also as a vital step in strengthening the economic relationship between New Zealand and China.