The planes have 30 percent more seats than the aircraft currently flying the direct route, as well as a new business class cabin.
Christchurch Airport Chief Aeronautical and Commercial Officer, Justin Watson, said that the 787-9 will be able to carry about three extra tonnes of air freight, which is good news for exporters. "That can roughly be the equivalent of $29,000 of export value to the South Island on every flight.”
