RegionsAir3C

Air Chathams is New Zealand's largest privately owned regional airline, founded in 1984 by Craig and Marion Emeny. Headquartered at Chatham Islands Tuuta Airport (CHT), the airline provides an essential lifeline service connecting one of the world's most remote inhabited communities to mainland New Zealand.

The airline began operations transporting live crayfish from the Chatham Islands to Gisborne using a small Cessna Super Skymaster. From these modest freight origins, Air Chathams has grown into a significant regional carrier operating modern turboprop aircraft across multiple routes. The airline became the sole provider of scheduled flights to the Chatham Islands in 1996 and has since expanded to serve underserved regional communities on the mainland following Air New Zealand's withdrawal from several routes.

Air Chathams operates as a family-run business with a community-focused philosophy, describing itself as "caring more about people than profits." The airline serves approximately 800 Chatham Islanders who rely on these flights for essential travel, medical appointments, and connection to family on the mainland.

Carry-On Allowance

All Fares:

• One item of hand luggage
• Maximum weight: 7 kg (15 lbs)
• Maximum dimensions: 115 cm total linear (length + width + height combined)

Checked Baggage

Baggage allowances vary by fare type and route:

Domestic Mainland Routes (Auckland-Whakatane, Auckland-Whanganui, Auckland-Kapiti Coast):

Fare Class	Checked Bags Included	Weight per Bag
Thrifty	None	N/A
Saver	1 bag	23 kg (50 lbs)
Full Economy	2 bags	23 kg each (50 lbs)

Additional bag fees (Domestic):

• Pre-booked online: $35 NZD per bag (up to 23 kg)
• At airport check-in: $55 NZD per bag

Chatham Islands Routes:

Fare Class	Checked Bags Included	Weight per Bag
Thrifty	None	N/A
Saver	1 bag	23 kg (50 lbs)
Full Economy	2 bags	23 kg each (50 lbs)

Additional bag fees (Chatham Islands):

• Pre-booked online: $70 NZD per bag (up to 23 kg)
• At airport check-in: $90 NZD per bag

Overweight Fees

• Excess weight: $3.50 NZD per kg over allowance
• Maximum single bag weight: 32 kg (70 lbs)

Special Items

Item	Fee	Notes
Golf bags	$50 handling + baggage fee	If only checked item, excess weight $3.50/kg over 23 kg
Surfboards	$50 handling + baggage fee	Same weight rules apply
Fishing rods	$50 handling + baggage fee	Rod case counts as baggage
Bicycles	$50 handling + baggage fee	Must be appropriately packed
Firearms	$50 handling + baggage fee	Advance notification required
Musical instruments	$50 handling + baggage fee	Hard case recommended
Car seat	Free	Does not count toward allowance
Stroller	Free	Does not count toward allowance
Baby gear (bassinet, portable cot)	Free	Up to 2 items for infants

Infant Allowance

Passengers traveling with infants (7 days to under 24 months):

• Additional 5 kg luggage allowance on standard checked baggage
• Two baby items (bassinet, car seat, stroller, portable cot) carried free

Baggage policies updated February 2025. Always confirm current fees before travel.

Booking Chatham Islands Flights:

• Book well in advance, especially for holiday periods and summer months (December-February)
• Flight frequency is limited (approximately 7 flights weekly from all mainland airports combined)
• Consider flexibility with dates if traveling during peak times
• Weather can cause delays and cancellations - build buffer time into travel plans

For Remote Island Travel:

• The Chatham Islands are 45 minutes ahead of New Zealand time (Chatham Islands Standard Time)
• Limited accommodation on the islands - book lodging before booking flights
• No connecting flights available - if you miss your flight, expect to wait several days
• Medical facilities are basic - ensure adequate travel insurance and carry necessary medications

Baggage Tips:

• Pre-book baggage online for significant savings ($35 vs $55 domestic; $70 vs $90 Chatham Islands)
• Weight limits are strictly enforced due to small aircraft capacities
• Pack essentials in carry-on in case checked luggage is delayed due to weight restrictions

Regional Mainland Routes:

• Air Chathams regional services (Whakatane, Whanganui, Kapiti Coast) offer faster travel times than driving
• These routes were introduced after Air New Zealand withdrew service
• Excellent option for day trips from Auckland to regional towns

General:

• The airline does not have a frequent flyer program
• No alliance membership - no partner airline benefits apply
• Aircraft are turboprops - expect propeller noise and potentially bumpier rides in weather
• Small aircraft mean boarding is often done via stairs on the tarmac

Weather Considerations:

• Chatham Islands weather is notoriously unpredictable
• Flights may be delayed or cancelled due to fog, wind, or storms
• The airline prioritizes safety over schedule - be prepared for weather-related changes
• Check flight status before heading to the airport

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Air Chathams provides an essential service to some of New Zealand's most remote communities. For current schedules, fares, and booking, visit airchathams.co.nz.