James Meager: Associate Transport Minister on the use of Ōhakea as an alternative runway for commercial flights, loans

The Government's hoping to send economic growth sky-high, announcing a 24/7 alternative runway for commercial airlines. 

It's approved funding for Ohakea Air Force base, near Palmerston North, to run round-the-clock air traffic control so planes can divert there if needed.  

Associate Transport Minister James Meager says this opens up an easier option for long-haul flights that may run low on fuel.  

He told Mike Hosking Qatar Airways downgraded its services to New Zealand last year because of how much fuel its planes had to carry.  

Meager also says they’re hoping regional airlines can refinance their debt and make some upgrades as loans are dished out. 

Golden Bay Air will receive a government loan of around $1.1 million from a $30 million package. 

Fund administrator, Kanoa, says it's working to fully allocate the rest of the funds quickly, processing loan applications from other airlines. 

Meager told Hosking loans will be low-interest and paying them back will be a priority.  

He says if these airlines can't make it work, they've got to find a way to ensure the country has reliable regional connectivity in the long run. 

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