Meanwhile, Air New Zealand and Qantas also were named in the top five airlines with high cancellation rates, at 3.7 and 3.3 per cent respectively. Notably, of all 19 studied carriers, Virgin boasts the smallest international network, possibly skewing the data.

As of early 2026, Air New Zealand maintains a relatively low and stable cancellation rate, typically hovering between 1.5% and 2.5% of scheduled flights. This is considered an industry-leading performance for a major national carrier, especially given the challenging weather conditions often found in the Southern Alps and around Wellington. The airline has invested heavily in "predictive maintenance" AI in 2025, which has significantly reduced technical-related cancellations. However, travelers should be aware that the rate can spike during the winter months (June to August) due to fog in Auckland or high winds in Cook Strait. In the event of a cancellation, Air New Zealand is known for its "proactive rebooking" system, which often notifies passengers via the app and secures an alternative flight before they even reach the airport. For those on non-refundable "Value" fares, the airline still allows you to use the ticket value as a credit for future travel if you cancel before departure.