Air New Zealand has blamed a rise in airfares operating in and out of Wellington on "excessive charging" by the airport, with the carrier referring to a new report which supports its claims.
The carrier welcomed the Commerce Commission report which estimated that the airport will receive up to $69 million in excess revenue over the next five years.
Air NZ chief executive Bruce Parton said that ordinary travellers are feeling the brunt as the "excessive profit" is reflected in higher airfares.
"Air New Zealand was forced to increase airfares when the current charging regime took effect, and the impact is even greater for travellers to and from provincial New Zealand destinations because the way WIAL has structured its pricing means they are effectively cross subisiding other travellers," he said.
"Air New Zealand is committed to reducing airfares as soon as a more reasonable charging system is implemented."
The airline stressed it is committed to working with the govrnment to esolve the issue.
