Hey everyone! Just saw that the New Zealand government is giving out more loans to some of their regional airlines. Air Chathams, Sounds Air, and Island Aviation are getting a slice of a NZD30 million package. Air Chathams is getting the biggest chunk, a whopping NZD17.2 million to help with their debt. Sounds Air is getting NZD4.5 million, which they'll use for fleet upgrades and some refinancing.
I think it's pretty cool that the government is stepping in to help these smaller airlines. These regional carriers are super important for connecting remote areas, especially in a place like New Zealand with all its islands and rugged terrain. But I do wonder how sustainable this kind of support is in the long run? I mean, how often can the government step in like this?
Also, does anyone know if this kind of financial support is common in other countries, or is New Zealand just really focused on keeping their regional aviation alive? Let me know what you guys think about this!
I think it's pretty cool that the government is stepping in to help these smaller airlines. These regional carriers are super important for connecting remote areas, especially in a place like New Zealand with all its islands and rugged terrain. But I do wonder how sustainable this kind of support is in the long run? I mean, how often can the government step in like this?
Also, does anyone know if this kind of financial support is common in other countries, or is New Zealand just really focused on keeping their regional aviation alive? Let me know what you guys think about this!