Air New Zealand says it's committed to maintaining regional connections, despite the Government turning down its offer. 

CEO Nikhil Ravishankar last week pitched a temporary subsidy for lesser used domestic flights, saying it might be necessary to keep them operational. 

But Prime Minister Chris Luxon says a subsidy isn't the answer, and Air New Zealand should shift its focus.

Ravishankar says it still isn't planning to leave the regions. 

"We know that it is a lot more than a commercial decision, it's a lifeline service at times. And we will do everything we can and everything we should be doing to ensure that connectivity remains."

LISTEN ABOVE

Air New Zealand says it's committed to maintaining regional connections, despite the Government turning down its offer.&nbsp;
CEO Nikhil Ravishankar last week pitched a temporary subsidy for lesser used domestic flights, saying it might be necessary to keep them operational.&nbsp;
But Prime Minister Chris Luxon says a subsidy isn't the answer, and Air New Zealand should shift its focus.
Ravishankar says it still isn't planning to leave the regions.&nbsp;
"We know that it is a lot more than a commercial decision, it's a lifeline service at times. And we will do everything we can and everything we should be doing to ensure that connectivity remains."
LISTEN ABOVE

Best of Business is the home of all things business at Newstalk ZB, from morning market updates right through to incisive interviews with New Zealand’s top business leaders and decision makers. 

Whether you’re a small business owner or interested in what’s going on in the Big End of Town, this podcast encompasses the sharpest voices and minds in the world of business.

Best of Business is the home of all things business at Newstalk ZB, from morning market updates right through to incisive interviews with New Zealand’s top business leaders and decision makers. Whether you’re a small business owner or interested in what’s going on in the Big End of Town, this podcast encompasses the sharpest voices and minds in the world of business.

Best of Business is the home of all things business at Newstalk ZB, from morning market updates right through to incisive interviews with New Zealand’s top business leaders and decision makers.

Best of Business

Nikhil Ravishankar: Air New Zealand CEO says the airline's committed to receiving a regional subsidy from the Government

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/aa20ac42-8180-4033-a9a6-b386006193d5/transcript