Turkish Airlines’ New Zealand flights: The airport that would roll out the welcome rug

The prospect of Turkish Airlines flying to New Zealand has excited some in the travel sector.

The airline has said it would fly to this country after launching flights to Australia last year and as part of a global expansion.

It has not provided any further details but chairman Ahmet Bolat announced plans to launch services to Minneapolis in April or May this year and also to Auckland, Turkish website Turizm ekonomi reported.

The New Zealand flight would stop in Singapore but non-stop flights are possible in the future as the airline takes delivery of its A350-1000 aircraft.

A Turkish Airlines Airbus A350 comes in to land. The airline has a fleet of close to 380 aircraft. Photo / AFP

The airline and Auckland Airport are not providing any further details but the country’s southern gateway, Christchurch Airport, says it would welcome the carrier.

“We would welcome Turkish Airlines flying into Christchurch,” said a spokesman.

Christchurch has had an increase of 20% in total international arriving passengers between November and December compared to the previous year and said for many leisure travellers is was a first-choice airport.

“We find our connecting passengers value the short, single terminal and very personal connection,” the spokesman said.

“Our operating conditions and our European markets offer complementary services to the Auckland option.”

The airport says Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, China Southern, Qantas and United Airlines all find their Auckland operations receive a boost when coupled with an appropriate Christchurch service.

A travel agent says if Turkish Airlines arrived, it would be great news for passengers.

“Only Turkish Airlines can confirm whether they are considering adding Auckland to any upcoming route expansion,” said Vanessa Parker, commercial air manager for House of Travel.

Europe remained a highly sought-after destination for Kiwi travellers, with demand rising.

House of Travel’s New Year sales were up 20% compared to last year, with long-haul destinations proving just as popular as local holidays.

“If Turkish Airlines, one of the largest carriers within the Star Alliance, announces a new route, it’s a win for our customers,‘’ Parker said.

Turkish Airlines had a network spanning 130 countries and said it would offer more choice to travel to Europe via Istanbul, along with the holidays to Turkey.

Grant Bradley has been working at the Herald since 1993. He is the Business Herald’s deputy editor and covers aviation and tourism.