Air New Zealand is ending its seasonal service between Auckland and Seoul due to ongoing engine availability issues across its fleet.
The airline’s final flight from Seoul Incheon International Airport (ICN) to Auckland International Airport (AKL) is scheduled for March 29. The 5,996-mi. (5,210-nm) route currently operates three times per week using Boeing 787 aircraft. Flights were originally scheduled to resume in October 2025, but Air New Zealand has now canceled the plans.
“Due to the ongoing challenges with engine availability, we have reviewed our network to ensure we are set up to operate our schedule effectively and best deliver for our customers’ needs,” Air New Zealand CCO Jeremy O'Brien says.
The airline has been grappling with global engine maintenance delays, which forced it to ground up to six Airbus A320neo-family aircraft and four 787s during the first half of its financial year to Dec. 30, 2024—representing 16% of its jet fleet.
The Pratt & Whitney GTF engines that power its A320s require extended inspections, while the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines on its 787s have suffered durability issues. These challenges are expected to continue until early 2026.
“We remain committed to providing seamless travel experiences for our customers and will work closely with our partners to ensure connectivity to Seoul remains accessible,” O'Brien says, adding that passengers can still travel to South Korea with partner airlines via Hong Kong, Singapore and Taipei.
Air New Zealand’s decision to suspend flights to Seoul follows a broader operational review prompted by aircraft shortages, which have already impacted the airline’s financial performance. In November 2024, the Star Alliance member projected a pre-tax profit of NZ$120 million to NZ$160 million ($69-$91 million) for the first half of its fiscal year, but cited grounded aircraft as a major financial strain.
Air New Zealand’s planned exit from the AKL-ICN market will leave Korean Air as the sole operator of nonstop flights between the cities. The airline offers year-round service on the route using 787-9s, operating daily during the northern winter season and three times per week during the northern summer schedule.
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