16 October 2009

Air New Zealand slashes fares

AUCKLAND - Air New Zealand is slashing its cheapest domestic air fares by up to 23 percent, while also simplifying its fare structures to two simple options.

Effective Monday, airfares are being reduced by 10 percent on average to help further stimulate domestic travel.

Regional New Zealandis the biggest winner in the sweeping changes with lead-in Smart Saver fares across all regional routes falling by up to 23 percent.

Lead in Smart Saver fares on domestic jet routes, which were reduced more than 20 percent a few months ago, remain unchanged.

Effective Monday, fare structures are being simplified as well, with the current three fare types being reduced to two - Smart Saver fares and Flexi Plus fares.

Smart Saver fares will continue to offer one free 25kg checked bag, online seat select and Status Points.

New Flexi Plus fares will start at substantially lower levels than existing Fully Flexi levels, with reductions averaging 32 percent

For example, the lead-in price for a Flexi Plus fare on Auckland- Wellington will be NZ$199, 38 percent lower than the old price of NZ$319.

The new fare type will provide more benefits than previously available, including two free 25kg checked bags and the ability to change flights at the airport on the day of travel for free to any available seat (including being able to do so via check-in kiosks).

"Our business customers have been telling us that their plans change regularly and that they need a fare that allows them ultimate flexibility on the day they are travelling.

"These fares give them that so there is no need to worry about a meeting running late, and customers can return home as soon as their work is done," says Air New Zealand group general manager short haul airline Bruce Parton.

"Cheaper Smart Saver airfares, will stimulate travel, growing the market and adding more tourists into regional New Zealand with flow on benefits to accommodation and attractions as the market recovers from recessionary impacts."

Air New Zealand’s lowest everyday Smart Saver fares will be only available online.