Air New Zealand has announced plans to reintroduce flights to London Heathrow (LHR), with a stopover in Los Angeles (LAX), starting in 2026. This strategic move marks the return of direct connectivity between New Zealand and the UK, following the suspension of the airline’s London route in 2020 due to the pandemic.
Route Details and Schedule
Route: Auckland (AKL) → Los Angeles (LAX) → London Heathrow (LHR)
Launch Year: 2026
Aircraft: Likely to be the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner or the future Boeing 787-10, known for their long-range capability and passenger comfort.
The exact schedule, flight frequencies, and seat configurations are expected to be revealed closer to the launch date.
Why This Route Matters
The decision to relaunch the Auckland-Los Angeles-London route comes in response to increasing passenger demand and Air New Zealand’s commitment to expanding its long-haul network. The move strategically positions Air New Zealand to:
Reclaim a Key Market: Restore direct access to London, one of the most significant destinations for New Zealand travelers.
Enhance Connectivity: Provide seamless travel for passengers transiting through Los Angeles to Europe and North America.
Boost Tourism and Trade: Strengthen ties between the UK, New Zealand, and the United States.
Strategic Stopover in Los Angeles
The stopover in Los Angeles (LAX) allows Air New Zealand to capitalize on the strong demand for transpacific travel. The Auckland-LAX route has historically been a popular segment for both business and leisure travelers. By incorporating Los Angeles as a midpoint, the airline can:
Optimize Fleet Utilization: Efficiently use its long-range fleet on a high-demand route.
Offer Dual-Destination Travel: Provide travelers the opportunity to visit Los Angeles before continuing to London.
Strengthen Partnerships: Leverage codeshare agreements with Star Alliance partners for onward connections.
Air New Zealand’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner fleet is designed to offer a superior travel experience with:
Business Premier Class: Lie-flat seats, premium dining, and personalized service.
Premium Economy: Enhanced comfort and service for long-haul travelers.
Economy Class: Comfortable seating, in-flight entertainment, and complimentary meals.
Skycouch Option: Innovative economy seating that converts into a flat surface for added comfort on long journeys.
Previous London Service
Air New Zealand previously operated a London Heathrow service via Los Angeles and later via Hong Kong, before discontinuing the route in 2020 due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The airline cited low profitability and operational challenges as key factors in the suspension.
Comments from Air New Zealand
Greg Foran, Air New Zealand CEO, highlighted the importance of the London relaunch:
“London has always been an important market for us, and we’re excited to reconnect New Zealand with the UK via Los Angeles. This route will offer our customers more choice and flexibility, reinforcing our commitment to long-haul travel.”
Bottom Line
Air New Zealand’s plan to relaunch its Auckland-Los Angeles-London service in 2026 marks a significant step in rebuilding its international network. This route will not only cater to the strong demand for travel between New Zealand, the United States, and the UK, but also strengthen tourism, trade, and cultural ties between these regions.
