The launch date for an alliance between Singapore Airlines and Air New Zealand has been confirmed as January 6, 2015.
Codeshare flights go on sale on both airlines’ services between Singapore and New Zealand on Thursday (September 25).
The partnership will see the Star Alliance carriers operating one return service a day on the Singapore-Auckland route and SIA running a daily return service between Singapore and Christchurch.
The aim is to increase capacity between New Zealand and Singapore by up to 30% year-round over time, while delivering enhanced benefits to passengers.
Air New Zealand will operate newly refurbished Boeing 777-200 aircraft on the Auckland-Singapore route featuring Business Premier, Premium Economy, Economy Skycouch and Economy seating.
SIA will continue to operate retrofitted Boeing 777-200ER aircraft on the Singapore-Christchurch route.
Airbus A380 superjumbos will be used on the Singapore-Auckland route during the northern winter operating season, reverting to Boeing 777-300ERs during northern summer.
SIA chief executive Goh Choon Phong said: “This alliance is a clear example of how our two airlines can do more by working together than we could do individually.
“Through increased frequency between Singapore and New Zealand and new codeshare destinations, it provides numerous benefits to our customers. It is also another example of our commitment to the important south-west Pacific market.”
Air New Zealand chief executive Christopher Luxon said: “Our alliance with Singapore Airlines going on sale is an exciting milestone in our growth strategy.
“We are looking forward to operating to Singapore for the first time in eight years, with this alliance allowing us to further expand our long haul network and open up a wide range of new codeshare destinations for our customers.
“Singapore Airlines is well regarded for its inflight product and service which we believe complements the service that Air New Zealand is well regarded for. By working closely together we hope we can further stimulate the market and drive visitor numbers from both ends of the route.”