Christchurch International Airport (CIAL) Chief Executive Jim
Boult has said he understands the reasoning behind Singapore
Airlines' decision not to add extra flights to and from
Christchurch during the winter season, as originally planned.
"The earthquake has had an effect on inbound tourist traffic and
we fully understand that the airline doesn't see this as the right
time to expand services," said Jim Boult. "We are pleased that the
present services will be maintained, as the South Island is still
very much open for business and Christchurch Airport is the major
hub for international travellers to the South Island."
Christchurch Airport is currently working with the tourism
industry to develop a new strategy to ensure tourists continue to
fly in and out of Christchurch Airport to travel in the South
Island. The strategy includes having a "bed bank" of
available rooms in Christchurch, as well as transporting travellers
to other centres to be accommodated.
