23 Dec 2024

Air NZ flight turns back due to mechanical fault

1:54 pm on 23 December 2024
Air New Zealand

Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon

An Air New Zealand flight from Christchurch to Auckland on Monday afternoon was turned around after the aircraft experienced a hydraulic system issue.

The national carrier said the issue on board flight NZ542 was identified shortly after takeoff, and the return service was also cancelled as a result.

The plane has landed safely at Christchurch Airport.

In a statement, Air New Zealand said: "The safety of our people and our customers is our utmost priority" and is rebooking affected customers on the next available flights.

The airline is thanking people for their patience.