Air New Zealand has announced a new non-stop service linking Auckland (AKL) and Chicago (ORD), launching on November 30. This year-round route will expand travel options between New Zealand and the U.S. Midwest, offering direct connections for leisure and business travelers.
Christopher Luxon, CEO of Air New Zealand, commented that the Chicago route will appeal to Americans interested in exploring New Zealand, as well as Kiwis traveling to Chicago or onward to other North American destinations. He noted the route’s potential economic benefits for New Zealand, estimating it could contribute around $70 million annually. Luxon also highlighted that more than half of U.S. visitor spending occurs outside major urban centers, and said the airline will coordinate with United Airlines to grow traffic and connections in both directions.
The service will operate three times per week on Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, with scheduled flight times of approximately 15–16 hours. Air New Zealand intends to codeshare on about 100 United Airlines flights across the United States to provide additional feed into the Auckland–Chicago connection.
Scheduled departures from Auckland are on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays at 8:10 p.m., arriving in Chicago at 4:15 p.m. local time. Return flights depart Chicago at 7:10 p.m., arriving in Auckland at 6:30 a.m. two days later, offering convenient overnight travel in both directions.
This direct service enhances network connectivity between New Zealand and the central United States, providing a non-stop option that reduces total travel time and simplifies itineraries for passengers traveling for tourism, family visits or business. The use of the Dreamliner will offer passengers a modern cabin experience with fuel-efficient, long-range performance suited to the trans-Pacific sector.
With expanded codeshare partnerships and a consistent three-times-weekly schedule, the new Auckland–Chicago route aims to strengthen trans-Pacific links, encourage tourism to New Zealand’s regions, and improve access for Kiwi travelers heading to Chicago and beyond.