Air New Zealand and Air India have recently joined hands in an effort to boost connectivity between India and New Zealand, with the exciting possibility of direct flights on the horizon. The airlines inked a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on March 19, 2025, paving the way for a new codeshare partnership on 16 routes spanning India, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand. This collaboration aims to provide travelers with increased choices and easier access between the two diverse nations.

The MoU signing ceremony took place in Mumbai and saw the presence of distinguished personalities including the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Christopher Luxon, Air New Zealand's CEO Greg Foran, and Air India's CEO & MD Campbell Wilson. This strategic agreement means that passengers can now seamlessly journey from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai on Air India, and then smoothly transfer at Sydney, Melbourne, or Singapore to Air New Zealand-operated flights headed to Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, and Queenstown.

Presently, individuals flying between New Zealand and India typically have to transit through Singapore Changi Airport and continue their trip with Singapore Airlines. The potential introduction of a direct route in the near future would not only fortify the ties between the two nations but also enhance the overall travel experience for passengers.

Air New Zealand expressed its eagerness towards expanding in the Indian market, viewing it as a significant growth opportunity. CEO Greg Foran remarked, “India represents a key growth market for Air New Zealand, and we are excited about the opportunity to enhance connectivity for travelers between our two countries.” He further emphasized that the codeshare arrangement serves as a crucial initial step, providing more alternatives for customers while laying the groundwork for potential direct services by the end of 2028, pending aircraft acquisitions and regulatory approvals.

With New Zealand hosting a sizable Indian community, currently the third-largest ethnic group in the country, the mutual benefits of improved connectivity are evident. This collaborative effort between Air New Zealand and Air India signals a promising future for travelers seeking enhanced travel options and smoother journeys between these vibrant nations.