Air New Zealand has introduced Hangar 4, a cutting-edge maintenance facility symbolizing one of its key infrastructure investments. Located in Māngere, Auckland, this hangar is pivotal for enhancing operational capabilities and aligns with the airline’s long-term growth strategy. Designed to cater to future aviation needs, it is prepared for the integration of next-generation aircraft.

At 10,000 square meters, with a height of 35 meters and a width of 98 meters, Hangar 4 allows the airline’s engineers to service a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and two Airbus A320/A321 aircraft simultaneously, supported by an additional 5000 square meters of specialized workshops. The facility has quickly become a recognizable landmark for travelers arriving in South Auckland.

Greg Foran, Air New Zealand’s CEO, expressed pride in the opening of Hangar 4, noting, “This is a state-of-the-art facility that will enable us to maintain our fleet to the highest standards of safety and performance, while giving us the flexibility to adapt as aircraft technology evolves. This investment ensures we have fit for purpose, modern infrastructure for our engineers to service our fleet. The investment also signals our confidence in our future – in our people, our country, and in the proud role we play in connecting New Zealanders to each other and New Zealand to the world.”

The unveiling ceremony was graced by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, who previously served as CEO of Air New Zealand when the project was initiated in 2019. He stated, “It’s great to see this project delivered and ready to help Air New Zealand in its role of driving tourism and trade. Infrastructure like this is critical for New Zealand, and Air New Zealand’s future. It supports highly skilled jobs and is future-fit for new innovation and growth.”

Hangar 4 is pursuing a 6 Green Star Rating from the New Zealand Green Building Council and stands as the largest single-span timber arch hangar in the Southern Hemisphere. Timber was selected for its lightweight properties and sustainability, sourced from environmentally managed plantations. The innovative ETFE roof provides natural light and retains warmth without necessitating a heating system, supplemented by fans to circulate air seasonally.

Efficient construction methods included prefabricated trusses using the nation’s largest crawler crane, and underground service pits to streamline maintenance processes.

In conclusion, Hangar 4 not only enhances Air New Zealand’s operational capabilities but also reflects the airline’s commitment to sustainable aviation.