New Zealand Updates
Air New Zealand remove ‘straight to gate’ check-in process - From 1 July, Air New Zealand’s domestic travellers without checked bags will no longer be able to proceed directly to the gate using the Air New Zealand app. As airports are getting busier, Air New Zealand has removed the gate check-in to enable the team to complete check-in processes and depart on time. Online check-in will continue to be available 24 hours prior to departure, via the Air New Zealand app or website. Check-in and bag drop off must be completed no later than 30 minutes before departure. Flights will close 30 minutes before departure and those not checked in at this time will be unable to travel. Flexitime and Flexidate fares will also be unable to be changed to flights departing within 30 minutes.
New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority coming into effect - The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) will be coming into effect 1 October 2019 for travellers entering New Zealand, to assist in speeding the processes up at the border. Find out what you need to know here.
Christchurch Airport launches autonomous vehicle trial - Christchurch International Airport has introduced New Zealand’s first ‘Smart Shuttle’ as part of the second stage of its autonomous vehicle trial. The Smart Shuttle is designed to transport up to 15 passengers around the airport campus.
Air Updates
Important IATA Update - IATA has issued a new rule regarding customer contact details. Effective 1 June 2019, IATA Resolution 830d requires travel agents to actively ask each customer whether they wish to have their contact details provided to airlines for the purposes of contact in an operational disruption. Learn more here.
World’s Best Airline for 2019 named - Qatar Airways has been named the World’s Best Airline for 2019 at the annual Skytrax World Airline Awards. Qatar Airways is the first airline to win the world’s best airline five times since the awards began in 1999. They also took out the World’s Best Business Class title for their Business class Qsuite.
Increase to Sydney International Passenger Service Charge Tax (WY) - Sydney International Passenger Service Charge Tax (WY) has increased from AUD $31.48 to AUD $32.22 effectively immediately for travel on/after 01 July 2019.
Land Updates
Bay of Islands new $4.75 million airport terminal is now open - A new $4.75 million airport terminal has now opened in Kerikeri, allowing three times more passengers to fly into the Bay of Islands. The new terminal has more space for arrivals and departures, baggage screening and a separate luggage collection area.
Air New Zealand’s Star Alliance lounge in LA has been named the World’s Best Alliance Lounge - Air New Zealand's Star Alliance lounge in LA has been named the World’s Best Alliance Lounge for the fifth year in a row at the annual Skytrax World Airline Awards. This lounge is designed and managed by Air New Zealand.
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) uses AI to reduce food waste - InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has a long-term commitment to minimise waste across all of its hotels and have unveiled their recent plans to use artificial intelligence (AI) to reduce food waste at selected properties. The AI technology uses intelligent cameras, smart scales and meters to analyse ingredients during food preparation, while also returning plates to the kitchen, to determine which items of food are wasted the most and what quantities.
Follow Corporate Traveller on LinkedIn
You’ll receive the latest industry updates, insights and exclusive offers as they happen.