KEY POINTS:
Air New Zealand has reserved time for a court hearing over Christchurch International Airport's $208 million terminal redevelopment plans.
The airline has booked a court-based judicial review in the week beginning February 9.
But company deputy chief executive Norm Thompson said the airline was hoping for an out-of-court resolution after progress during recent talks, The Press newspaper reported today.
Air NZ wanted a terminal "at a cost that's acceptable to us".
Airport chief executive Rene Bakx said the judicial review would be heard in the High Court at Christchurch "if it proceeds".
"It is considered by both companies to be a backstop measure only, and that both companies hope to reach a conclusion which avoids the need for the review," he said.
The terminal "must proceed without further delay if it is to be built in time for the 2011 Rugby World Cup".
Last month Air NZ called on Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland airports to immediately drop their charges.
"As global economies continue to tighten we all need to play our part in stimulating travel. Airports could assist in keeping fares lower by reducing landing fees during this economic downturn," Mr Thompson said at that time.
The costs of landing at Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch airports were excessive by international standards, he said.
- NZPA
