New non-stop service between Auckland and Chicago

Air New Zealand will launch a new non-stop service between Auckland (pictured) and Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport from November this year. In addition to the new route announcement, United has announced it will extend its seasonal service between Auckland and San Francisco to year-round from April 2019. From November 30, 2018, Air New Zealand will operate the new route three times weekly, year-round with its new configuration Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft.  Flight time will be approximately 15 hours northbound and just over 16 hours southbound.

In other news, Air New Zealand and Qantas have announced plans for a reciprocal codeshare agreement, supposedly making travel within Australia and New Zealand easier. Under the codeshare Qantas intends to add its code on up to 30 routes on Air New Zealand’s domestic network and Air New Zealand intends to add its code on up to 85 routes on Qantas’ domestic network. Coordination of check-in and handling at airports should mean shorter connection times. Eligible customers will have access to a combined total of 36 domestic lounges when flying on routes covered by the codeshare agreement.