The Longest Routes From Auckland Airport This Month. In terms of long-haul routes from Auckland Airport, Doha and New York take the lead. Auckland’s strategic location as New Zealand’s primary international gateway means it serves as a departure point for some exceptionally lengthy flights.
Auckland Role in Global Connectivity
Auckland connects New Zealand to a wide range of international destinations, making it a crucial hub for the country. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, New Zealand has reopened its borders, leading to increased activity at the Auckland Airport. However, recent issues, such as floods and lengthy customs wait times, have presented some challenges.
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Doha to Auckland: The Longest Route
Qatar Airways, based in Doha, currently holds the title for the longest route originating from Auckland. The airline operates a daily service connecting the Middle East to New Zealand, covering a total distance of 9,011 miles. This route is served by Qatar Airways’ state-of-the-art Airbus A350-1000.
New York and Dubai: Not Far Behind
While flights between New Zealand and the United States West Coast have always been prevalent, Air New Zealand recently introduced a flagship service to New York JFK, spanning 8,813 miles. This route, serviced by the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, initially operated three times a week and now faces competition from Qantas with its AKL to JFK service using the same aircraft variant since June.
Emirates, with its A380 aircraft, operates flights to two destinations in New Zealand: Auckland and Christchurch. The Auckland route, covering 8,810 miles, is a direct flight and connects easily to various destinations at the Emirati hub.
Chicago and Dallas/Fort Worth: The Top Five
Chicago O’Hare and Dallas/Fort Worth rank fourth and fifth, with Air New Zealand flying to Chicago and American Airlines connecting to Texas. These flights span distances of 8,180 and 7,439 miles, respectively.
Auckland to Houston: Close Behind
Air New Zealand’s Boeing 777-300ER serves a daily route to Houston from Auckland, covering a distance of 7,414 miles. Given Auckland’s status as Air New Zealand’s home base, it’s no surprise that Vancouver, the only connection to Canada, comes in seventh place, spanning 7,043 miles and offering 21 services to British Columbia for October.
San Francisco and Los Angeles
San Francisco claims eighth place, with both Air New Zealand and United Airlines operating Boeing 777 aircraft on this route, amassing a total of 38 services this month. This makes it the most frequently serviced route in the top ten in terms of the number of flights.
Los Angeles follows closely behind, with Air New Zealand operating the route with the 777-300ER for the 6,504-mile journey. Delta Air Lines is set to commence its Auckland service starting October 28th, operating year-round. United Airlines will also resume its route on October 30th.
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Beijing Rounds Out the Top Ten
In the tenth position is Air China’s route to Beijing, covering a distance of 6,462 miles, just slightly shorter than the route to Los Angeles. Auckland will see 18 return flights to the Chinese capital this month, further solidifying its role as a key international hub.