First Originair flight lands in Napier with much fanfare
Originair's first commercial flight to the region from Nelson landed at Hawke’s Bay Airport with much fanfare.
The flight, which touched down at 1pm, marked the beginning of better connectivity to the Tasman region, as well as Hamilton and Palmerston North.
Hawke’s Bay Airport chief executive, Stuart Ainslie was onsite to greet passengers and crew.
“I am so excited to see the arrival of Originair at Hawke’s Bay Airport today.”
“We are all feeling the impacts of the pandemic, particularly the aviation industry. Making it easier for Hawke’s Bay people to connect with friends and family in Nelson, Hamilton and Palmerston North helps Hawke’s Bay Airport recover from those impacts but it also bolsters the people and economy of our region.”
Originair chief executive Robert Inglis' granddaughter Zoe Ingis cuts the cake, with Hawke’s Bay Airport chief executive, Stuart Ainslie (left) looking on. Photo/Supplied.
The flight was welcomed with water cannons from Hawke’s Bay Airport’s fire service and airport ambassadors warmly welcomed passengers, including Nelson Airport’s chief executive Mark Thompson, with local treats.
Following aviation tradition for a new airport connection to be recognised with a cake - and airports around the world commissioning elaborate creations to try and outdo each other - Hawke’s Bay Airport more than met the challenge.
A nod to Originair was revealed as Zoe Ingis, the granddaughter of Originair chief executive Robert Inglis cut into the New Zealand-shaped cake.
