In this episode, we talk to Billie Moore, Chief Executive at NZ Airports Association, who shares insights into New Zealand’s distinctive approach to sustainable aviation and the challenges of operating in an isolated island nation.

In essence, the NZ Airports Association serves as a central hub for coordination, advocacy, and knowledge sharing among New Zealand’s airports, with a particular focus on navigating the challenges of sustainability and decarbonisation in the aviation sector.

Moore discusses:

1. The critical role of aviation in New Zealand, serving as an essential connection to the world and within the country, reshaping its geography and allowing New Zealanders to “live global lives”.
2. New Zealand’s roadmap to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, including exploration of electric aircraft, green hydrogen, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
3. The collaborative efforts between airports, airlines, and the government, exemplified by Air New Zealand’s Flight NZ0 project and the involvement of various airports in testing new technologies.
4. The potential of electric aircraft for domestic routes, with 60% of Air New Zealand’s domestic flights being turboprops flying less than 350 kilometres.
5. The challenges and opportunities in SAF adoption, including New Zealand’s distance from major SAF markets and potential partnerships with Australia.

Looking to the future, Moore expresses hope for continued international collaboration and information sharing, which will be crucial for small countries like New Zealand in addressing global aviation sustainability challenges.

If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai International Airports. Check it out here. 

Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.

Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.

Links & More:

NZ Airports Association 

Air New Zealand’s Flight NZ0, a decade-long journey towards carbon neutrality – Inside Tourism

Hydrogen Consortium launched to promote green air travel in New Zealand - Airport Technology 

Air New Zealand receives 500,000-litre delivery of SAF - Biodiesel Magazine 

Air New Zealand is first major airline to scrap 2030 emissions target - The Guardian

How do you decarbonise a major airport? - SimpliFlying