The first of Air New Zealand's new fleet of 777-300ER aircraft took off from Boeing's Seattle headquarters yesterday, and began what the airline is calling an economy-class revolution.

The EU criticised airport operators yesterday for failing to deal adequately with the heavy snow and freezing weather.

The handover of Air NZ's first 777-300 aircraft is the biggest development in commercial air travel in 30 years, the airline says.

Air NZ and Virgin Blue have won approval from Transport Minister Steven Joyce to cooperate on routes across the Tasman.

Australian airline Jetstar has agreed to reinstate whistleblower pilot Joe Eakins.

Cabin crew reveal how they deal with unruly and disruptive passengers. Video / IATA

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has given approval for the proposed trans-Tasman alliance between Air New Zealand and Virgin Blue.

Air New Zealand is in talks with other airlines wanting to use its new "cuddle class" economy seats.

A new air link between China and New Zealand could boost tourist spending by up to $50 million a year.

Air NZ has been ordered for a second time to reinstate a flight attendant sacked for sitting down during turbulence. The Employment Court ruled Randall Wulff's firing was unfair and "unjustifiable".

An Air NZ passenger had to climb over seats to use the toilet after being told the passenger blocking her way could not be woken.

More than 43,000 seats were sold within three days of Air Asia X's launch in New Zealand last week.

A cut-price Asian airline is promising the "cheapest international airfares New Zealand has seen" when it launches in Christchurch today.