With all entry restrictions imposed as a measure against the spread of COVID-19 now lifted, the number of tourists from overseas is returning to New Zealand. There is also encouraging news that Air New Zealand's profits are also increasing.
Air New Zealand has been working on various initiatives for some time now, which have been in the news many times. This time, we will introduce some of the most recent initiatives that have been in the news.
Celebrating with an all-female crew
To commemorate International Women's Day on March 8th, which was established by the United Nations to promote the advancement of women and gender equality, and Women Of Aviation Worldwide Week, a week to encourage women to play an active role in the aviation industry , three flights departing from Auckland were operated by all-female crew.
In this video, first we see Rachel, the captain.
Working with airplanes has been a dream of mine since I was a child, and this year marks my 16th year flying with Air New Zealand.
Penny, the co-pilot, said,
I'm happy to wake up every morning knowing I can work in the best office in the world.
He commented,
The video features not only the two female pilots who flew the flight, but also the many women working in cabin crew, maintenance, and at the airport.
And finally
I hope that one day we will be seen as just "pilots" and not "female pilots."
It ended with this message.
All in Maori
Air New Zealand collaborated with Te Matatini , a Maori song and dance performance contest held in Auckland, to operate a Wellington-Auckland flight carrying participants to Te Matatini entirely in Maori. This is said to be the first attempt at this.
Before boarding, passengers were seen off with Maori songs and dances in the lobby, and the boarding announcements and announcements from the pilot and cabin crew were all in Maori (safety-related announcements were also made in English).
The crew also gave a performance on board.
In New Zealand, there are many initiatives to cherish the culture of the indigenous Maori people. Herewini Parata, director of Te Matatini, said,
This collaboration has been an opportunity to promote and preserve our unique Māori language and culture through song and dance performances.
He commented,
Nominated for Crystal Cabin Award
Air New Zealand's Skynest has been nominated for a Crystal Cabin Award , an international award given to outstanding aircraft interiors.
The Skynest is a triple bunk bed that will be installed in economy class.
Air New Zealand is currently introducing the "Skycouch," which combines the equivalent of three economy class seats into one sofa with a special footrest to provide more comfortable and spacious seating for two adults or a parent and child, but the "Skynest" pursues comfort far beyond that.
Because New Zealand is located at the bottom of the Southern Hemisphere, flight times are often long. A direct flight to New York recently opened is an amazing 18 hours. On a long flight, you want to stretch your whole body and be in a comfortable position.
Details about the Sky Nest have not yet been announced. For example, it is still unclear whether multiple people will use it at separate times, or how much it will cost. They are aiming to put it into practical use next year, and it is hoped that passengers will be able to spend a comfortable time in it for just an additional fee on top of the economy class price, rather than the expensive business class price.
