Qantas and Emirates have welcomed the New Zealand Minister for Transport’s decision to approve their partnership for five years.

The partnership will provide New Zealand customers with stronger links to Australia, Europe, the Middle East, North Africa and the UK, as well as frequent flyer benefits and world-class travel experiences.

Qantas and Emirates applied for authorisation of the partnership under the Civil Aviation Act.

 Chief Executive Officer of the Qantas Group Alan Joyce said the decision was great news for global travellers and local tourism.

“This decision means that New Zealand consumers can tap into the lounges, frequent flyer benefits and destinations available under the joint Qantas and Emirates network,” said Mr Joyce.

“The partnership also opens the door to increased tourism opportunities for New Zealand, by making it easier for travellers across both Qantas and Emirates’ network to connect more seamlessly across the Tasman,” he added.

In welcoming today’s announcement, President of Emirates Tim Clark, said: “This is a truly game-changing partnership that brings together two of the world’s best airlines and offers some of the highest quality travel experiences.

“Dubai is a leading global hub and through it, our two airlines will connect New Zealand to Europe, the UK and Northern Africa more smoothly than ever before,” added Mr Clark.

From Dubai, passengers can connect to 65 destinations in Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. Almost all of these connections to Europe and most to North Africa are available within 4 hours of landing in Dubai.

Qantas and Emirates operate a total of 129 flights per week between Australia and New Zealand on a mix of B737, A380 and B777 aircraft.

Emirates: Bob Wallace (PPR New Zealand) +64 9 979 2000 or +64 29 979 2000

Qantas (5334): M: +61 418 210 005 or M: +64 21 145 7701 E: qantasmedia@qantas.com.au