A graphic showing potential new low-emission or no-emission aircraft. Photo: Supplied / Air New Zealand
Air New Zealand is looking for two local airports to be part of its move to a new generation of no- or low-emissions aircraft.
It is asking for expressions of interest (EOI) to participate in a trial cargo service to show the feasibility of the aircraft.
Chief Sustainability officer Kiri Hannifin said the selected airports would be important in introducing lower-emissions aircraft into the country.
"Work around next generation aircraft is a key part of the airline's strategy to decarbonise its operations. Decarbonising aviation is not easy, and we've got a lot of work ahead of us, but we're committed to reducing our emissions as quickly as we can, and this process is another step in the right direction."
The EOI document said it wanted one airport as a base, with refuelling, maintenance, and hangar facilities, and the other as a destination and to be no more than 400km apart.
The airports would need to have sealed runways of at least 1200 metres and be existing Air New Zealand destinations.
Last year Air New Zealand said it was partnering with four aircraft makers on developing and using hydrogen, battery or hybrid electric powered planes for demonstrator flights from 2026. In due course it wants such place to replace the small planes it currently uses on provincial routes.
Hannifin said the selected airports would also be at the forefront of developing the necessary ground facilities to support new generation planes.
"The selected airports will be leaders in supporting the implementation of this new technology and will be the conduit of information between airports across the motu as we drive the change required in advance of our larger fleet replacement needs from 2030."
The deadline for submissions on the EOI is September with a decision expected to be made by November.