Marlborough Airport chairperson Matt Kerr and Originair managing director Robert Inglis. Photo: Supplied / Marlborough Airport
A regional airline has announced it will begin commercial flights between Blenheim and Christchurch.
Originair will start flying the route from 19 October after Sounds Air cancelled its flights on the same route from the end of September because of "out of control costs".
Marlborough Airport chief executive Dean Heiford said a consistent return service to Christchurch was important for Marlborough businesses and tourism and helped people access health care in the city.
The services will be operated by Originair's 18-seat British Aerospace Jetstream 32 aircraft, crewed by two pilots, with morning and afternoon departures Tuesday to Thursday, a morning service on Monday and an afternoon service on Friday and Sunday.
Marlborough Airport chairperson Matt Kerr said Originair planned to scale up to an all-week, twice-daily service if there was demand.
"Maintaining regional connectivity and keeping it affordable is a top priority for the airport, and Originair stepping in to fill this route is great news," he said.
Destination Marlborough general manager Tracey Green said Christchurch was not only a key market for Marlborough but also an important gateway for visitors from Australia's east coast.
Marlborough mayor Nadine Taylor said the flights would keep Marlborough connected with both the rest of New Zealand and international destinations.
"We know demand is there and I encourage Marlburians to get on board and build a long term, sustainable service."
Christchurch Airport chief executive Justin Watson said regional routes were vital to Christchurch's role as the South Island hub, connecting communities and supporting economic activity across the region.
At the same time, the airline is introducing direct flights between Blenheim and Palmerston North on Mondays and Fridays. Originair already operates flights between Nelson and Palmerston North and was extending the connectivity to Marlborough.
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