Airways International Limited (AIL), Airways New Zealand’s commercial arm is pleased to have signed a contract with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for the provision of Aeronautical Information Services (AIS) in New Zealand.
AIL’s Aeropath team has provided Aeronautical Information Services under contract with the CAA for the past 12 years. Renewing this contract ensures that New Zealand’s AIS needs will continue to be met now and into the future.
As part of this agreement, AIL and the CAA developed a future service model for AIS in New Zealand. They also consulted with key stakeholder groups. The contract spans six years of service with the right of renewal.
Airways New Zealand CEO James Young says Airways is proud to continue its long-standing partnership with the Civil Aviation Authority.
“Signing this new contract reflects the trust and confidence placed in the Aeropath team’s expertise following 12 years of excellent service, and our commitment to delivering high-quality aeronautical information services for New Zealand. It also marks an exciting step forward as we work together to modernise and future-proof AIS for the benefit of New Zealand’s aviation sector.”
CAA Director and Chief Executive Keith Manch said that the agreement provides certainty and confidence for the New Zealand public and aviation industry.
“Aeronautical Information includes information such as Navigation, MET, NOTAM, Traffic, and airport conditions. This can vary widely between different sectors and aeronautical activities including VFR/IFR GA/Airline and recreational and commercial aviation.
This service ensures a consistent and standardised flow of aeronautical information. It supports safe and efficient air navigation across New Zealand. This is a key part of supporting activities that require a safe aviation system, such as the wider transport system and the economy.”
The new contract includes retaining baseline services, as well as allowing for development costs to keep up with both international regulatory standards and technological advancements. This allows for a vision of a transition to digitised aeronautical information management in the future.
Under section 39 of the Civil Aviation Act 2023, the Civil Aviation Authority must provide aeronautical services. It must also meet ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (or notify differences) for AIS and aeronautical charts.