The Aviation Industry Association of New Zealand says life‑preserving aviation services must be prioritised in any government fuel response plan, as fuel prices continue to surge.
AIA Chief Executive Simon Wallace says sharp increases in jet fuel and Avgas costs are placing significant pressure on operators providing essential services such as aeromedical flights, search and rescue, firefighting, and agricultural aviation. He stressed that these operators cannot absorb sudden cost spikes and must be able to recover fuel costs to remain operational.
Simon also highlighted the importance of fuel access for agricultural aviation during the peak fertiliser application season and warned that smaller domestic operators must not be overlooked. He said a clear, aviation‑specific fuel crisis plan is needed to ensure critical services continue to support communities, animal welfare, and regional connectivity across New Zealand.