The Aviation Industry Association of New Zealand (AIANZ) welcomes the Government’s announcement of new civil aviation rules that will provide regional airports with more flexible and cost-effective options for meeting runway safety requirements.
Announced by Associate Transport Minister James Meager, the changes introduce shorter runway end safety area (RESA) requirements for smaller airports and recognise alternative safety measures, including aircraft arresting systems. The reforms are intended to reduce compliance costs, streamline approvals processes and better align New Zealand’s regulations with international standards.
AIANZ Chief Executive Simon Wallace said the changes are a positive step for regional aviation and could help improve the long-term sustainability of regional airports and air services.
“If there are lower investment costs for regional airports, that can help create a more sustainable environment for regional air services and support continued connectivity for communities across New Zealand.”
The new approach provides airports with greater flexibility to manage runway safety while maintaining New Zealand’s strong aviation safety standards. It also has the potential to support future airport development and improve the economic viability of regional air routes.
AIANZ supports practical, risk-based regulation that enhances safety outcomes while enabling investment, innovation and growth across New Zealand’s aviation sector.