Air New Zealand cancels 44 long‑haul flights ahead of 12–13 Feb cabin crew strike

Air New Zealand has preemptively canceled 44 long‑haul flights due to a planned strike by international cabin crew on 12–13 February. The changes affect wide‑body services linking Auckland with Asia and North America, while Tasman and Pacific Island routes are largely unaffected. The airline has contacted impacted customers, offering rebooking two to three days around the strike dates, travel credits, or refunds, and is using partner airlines for re‑accommodation. About 16,000 passengers are impacted. An operational update states bargaining has begun and contingency care, including meals and accommodation where required, is in place.

Air New Zealand has announced the cancellation of 44 long‑haul flights in response to planned industrial action by its international cabin crew on 12–13 February. The cancellations center on wide‑body operations linking Auckland with destinations across Asia and North America. Services on Tasman and Pacific Island routes, which are primarily operated by narrow‑body aircraft, are largely unaffected.

The airline initiated contingency measures in advance of the strike dates. Impacted customers were contacted directly and offered several options: rebooking two to three days before or after 12–13 February, travel credits, or full refunds. Where suitable, the carrier is also re‑accommodating passengers through Star Alliance and other interline partners to maintain travel plans.

Approximately 16,000 passengers are affected by the cancellations and timetable adjustments. Domestic and regional operations are reported to be stable, with fleet deployment adjusted to protect those services from disruption.

In an operational update dated 3 February, the airline stated that facilitated bargaining had commenced and that the notified strike action was confined to the two specified days. Contingency provisions include assistance with re‑accommodation, and, where required, meals, refreshments, accommodation and transport. Passengers are also able to request refunds or retain ticket value as future travel credit.

These measures are intended to manage the operational impact of the strike in a controlled manner, reducing last‑minute disruption and preserving key international connectivity as far as possible. Customers holding bookings on affected services are being supported with alternative arrangements and care consistent with the airline’s stated contingency plans.