- Flight Disruptions
- Air New Zealand cancels 44 long‑haul flights ahead of 12–13 Feb cabin crew strike
Air New Zealand cancels 44 long‑haul flights ahead of 12–13 Feb cabin crew strike
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Checked by Matteo Floris
Last updated on February 11, 2026
44
Affected flights
16,000
Impacted travelers
1
Affected airlines
What Happened
Air New Zealand has preemptively canceled 44 long‑haul flights due to a planned strike by international cabin crew on 12–13 February. The changes affect wide‑body services linking Auckland with Asia and North America, while Tasman and Pacific Island routes are largely unaffected. The airline has contacted impacted customers, offering rebooking two to three days around the strike dates, travel credits, or refunds, and is using partner airlines for re‑accommodation. About 16,000 passengers are impacted. An operational update states bargaining has begun and contingency care, including meals and accommodation where required, is in place.
Passengers affected by this flight disruption may be eligible for compensation of up to US$650 under passenger rights regulations.
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Flight Disruption Details
Air New Zealand has announced the cancellation of 44 long‑haul flights in response to planned industrial action by its international cabin crew on 12–13 February. The cancellations center on wide‑body operations linking Auckland with destinations across Asia and North America. Services on Tasman and Pacific Island routes, which are primarily operated by narrow‑body aircraft, are largely unaffected.
The airline initiated contingency measures in advance of the strike dates. Impacted customers were contacted directly and offered several options: rebooking two to three days before or after 12–13 February, travel credits, or full refunds. Where suitable, the carrier is also re‑accommodating passengers through Star Alliance and other interline partners to maintain travel plans.
Approximately 16,000 passengers are affected by the cancellations and timetable adjustments. Domestic and regional operations are reported to be stable, with fleet deployment adjusted to protect those services from disruption.
In an operational update dated 3 February, the airline stated that facilitated bargaining had commenced and that the notified strike action was confined to the two specified days. Contingency provisions include assistance with re‑accommodation, and, where required, meals, refreshments, accommodation and transport. Passengers are also able to request refunds or retain ticket value as future travel credit.
These measures are intended to manage the operational impact of the strike in a controlled manner, reducing last‑minute disruption and preserving key international connectivity as far as possible. Customers holding bookings on affected services are being supported with alternative arrangements and care consistent with the airline’s stated contingency plans.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights
When your flight's disrupted, you may be entitled to various forms of care and compensation under EC 261 and other applicable laws.
Up to €600 compensation
Passengers whose flights were canceled or delayed over 3 hours may be entitled to financial compensation ranging from €250 to €600 per person. Check your flight.
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. You may also get a full refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Care and assistance
Your airline must provide food and refreshments if your journey is delayed more than a few hours.
Accommodation
If you are away from home and your journey is delayed overnight, the airline must offer you accommodation and transportation to it.
Communication
Under EC 261 you are entitled to 2 phone calls or emails if your journey is delayed over 1 hour.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Summary
Disruption
Cancellations
Cause
Airline strike
Status
Future – confirmed disruption
Compensation
Could be eligible for up to US$650 compensation
Flights affected
44
Passengers affected
16000
Airlines affected
Air New Zealand
Cities affected
Auckland
Countries affected
New Zealand
Start date
2026-02-12
End date
2026-02-13
Checked by
Matteo Floris
Date updated
February 11, 2026
What To Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled
If you're traveling to or from the European Union, here's what to do when your flight is unexpectedly scrubbed:
Gather evidence that your flight was delayed, canceled, or overbooked.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the disruption and the reason behind it.
Request an alternative flight to your destination — or a refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Make a note of the arrival time at your final destination.
Ask the airline to provide vouchers for meals and refreshments.
Avoid signing documents or accepting offers that may waive your passenger rights.
If an overnight stay is required, ask the airline to provide accommodation.
Save receipts for any additional expenses caused by the disruption.
