Auckland: Passengers planning international travel with Air New Zealand could face major disruptions next month as the airline’s widebody cabin crew have issued a formal strike notice over pay and working conditions. The industrial action is scheduled for February 11, 12 and 13, raising concerns that thousands of travellers, including those flying to and from India and other international destinations, may be affected.
The strike notice has been issued by unions representing cabin crew operating on widebody aircraft after prolonged negotiations with the airline failed to reach a settlement. Union leaders said crew members are under increasing financial pressure due to rising living costs and have rejected the airline’s proposed wage increase as inadequate. They also cited staff shortages, demanding work schedules and insufficient onboard facilities as factors contributing to growing workload stress.
The planned strike will primarily involve cabin crew working on Boeing 777 and Boeing 787 aircraft, which are mainly deployed on long-haul routes. As a result, flights connecting New Zealand with Australia, Asia — including India — and the United States are expected to face the maximum impact during the strike period.
Air New Zealand said it is continuing efforts to minimise disruption and is engaging with unions to resolve the dispute. The airline has advised passengers to ensure their contact details are updated in their bookings so they can receive timely alerts about any changes. Travellers have also been encouraged to use the Air New Zealand mobile app for real-time flight updates.
The airline has assured passengers that in the event of cancellations, it will assist with rebooking on alternative flights or provide accommodation where necessary. However, travel experts have warned that passengers who booked tickets after the strike announcement on January 26 may not be covered by travel insurance for strike-related disruptions.
Passengers have been advised to check the status of their flights before heading to the airport, as airfares on alternative carriers could rise sharply due to sudden demand, potentially resulting in higher travel costs.
