AVIATION SAFETY A TOP PRIORITY 

As a small island nation far from our major export markets, we are incredibly dependent on our airways. Aviation supports our high earning tourist industry, helps business connections and is a vital link in the event of emergencies and natural disasters. 

We are committed to working with the aviation industry to create opportunities for the industry to flourish domestically and internationally. One of the ways of we are doing this is by modernising our laws to allow the use of new technologies and keep New Zealanders safe. 

The Government is consulting on proposed law changes to overhaul the aviation regulatory system. The changes touch on every part of the aviation sector – from drones to lost luggage. Safety is our top transport priority and the proposed laws will make our airports, and flying, safer for New Zealanders and visitors to our country. 

Measures to improve safety include a new drug and alcohol management scheme, clearer powers for aviation security officers as well as amendments which take into account new technology like drones. Other measures include adding ‘Just Culture’ principles to encourage reporting of aviation incidents. I encourage NZALPA members to have their say on the proposed law changes in the draft Civil Aviation Bill at www.transport.govt.nz.

I know there is a lot of interest in managing drone safety, particularly around airports. The Ministry of Transport and the Civil Aviation Authority are working on a range of proactive measures, including looking closely at options such as putting in place registration, e-identification, geo-fencing and pilot competency requirements. They are keen to engage early with the industry to help develop their thinking, and I appreciate the offer of support that NZALPA has made.

I also recognise these measures won’t go far enough on their own. That’s why I’ve asked the Ministry to do further work on how to stop rogue drone pilots. I appreciate the constructive engagement from NZALPA and its members on a range of aviation security issues to date, and look forward to this continuing.  

For New Zealand to thrive, we need our regions to thrive, we need good regional air connectivity. Since the launch of the Provincial Growth Fund last year, investments have been made to upgrade the terminals at Gisborne and Kerikeri airports. Our Government is committed to enhancing economic development in our regions and strong air links are vital to support growth.