Editing Air New Zealand (section)

=== History of Air New Zealand ===
'''Early Years (1930s-1940s)'''

The roots of Air New Zealand trace back to '''1934''', when '''TEAL (Tasman Empire Airways Limited)''' was established as a joint venture between the governments of New Zealand, Australia, and the United Kingdom. It initially operated trans-Tasman flights between New Zealand and Australia. In '''1961''', the airline was rebranded as '''Air New Zealand'''.

In the years that followed, Air New Zealand expanded its services to international destinations, first flying to '''Fiji''' and '''the United States''', and then extending its network to Asia, Europe, and beyond. The airline became known for its strong safety record and impeccable service standards, gaining recognition as a reliable long-haul carrier.

'''Tragedy and Transformation (1970s-1980s)'''

In 1979, the airline suffered a devastating blow when '''Air New Zealand Flight 901''' crashed into Mount Erebus in Antarctica, killing all 257 people aboard. The tragedy deeply affected the airline and New Zealand as a whole. In the years that followed, Air New Zealand underwent significant restructuring to improve its safety protocols, service standards, and operational processes, which ultimately helped the airline recover.

'''Privatization and Global Expansion (1990s-Present)'''

Air New Zealand was '''privatized''' in '''1998''', and shortly afterward, it expanded its fleet and route network, launching more international flights, including to '''Europe''', '''Asia''', and the '''United States'''. The airline became a prominent member of the '''Star Alliance''' in '''1999''', further extending its reach across the globe.

The airline introduced a series of modern aircraft, such as the '''Boeing 777''' and '''Airbus A320''', and invested heavily in '''customer service innovation'''. Its '''Safety Videos''', often featuring quirky and humorous elements, garnered global attention and became a part of the airline's distinctive brand identity.

In recent years, Air New Zealand has focused on sustainability efforts, including modernizing its fleet with '''fuel-efficient aircraft''' and striving to become a '''carbon-neutral airline'''.
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