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Air New Zealand has officially announced that Chief Executive Officer Greg Foran will step down on October 20, 2025, marking the end of a transformative five-year tenure. The airline’s Chair, Dame Therese Walsh, confirmed Foran’s resignation, emphasizing his instrumental role in navigating the airline through one of the most challenging periods in global aviation history.

A Tenure Defined by Grit, Leadership, and Crisis Management

Reflecting on Foran’s time at the helm, Dame Therese commended his remarkable leadership, particularly during the global turbulence caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Greg has always displayed exceptional leadership and grit, not only guiding Air New Zealand through global aviation’s most significant crisis but also ensuring the airline remains at the forefront of innovation and customer service,” she stated.

Foran’s tenure was marked by strategic resilience, particularly in mitigating ongoing global supply chain disruptions. From the initial COVID-19-induced travel standstill to the persistent engine issues affecting both Boeing and Airbus fleets, his relentless focus and industry influence helped the airline manage these challenges with minimal operational impact.

Air New Zealand’s Future Amidst Leadership Transition

The announcement of Foran’s departure comes with a well-planned transition strategy. His extended notice period allows the Air New Zealand Board to conduct a global search for his successor while ensuring seamless leadership continuity.

“As I’d expect of Greg, he’s been very generous with his notice period,” Dame Therese noted. “This ensures we have ample time to identify the right leader to continue Air New Zealand’s trajectory of success.”

Under Foran’s leadership, the airline weathered unprecedented challenges and reinforced its standing as an industry innovator, focusing on sustainability, customer experience, and operational efficiency.

Greg Foran Reflects on His Journey

Foran expressed immense gratitude for his time leading Air New Zealand, describing it as one of the greatest privileges of his career.

“Leading Air New Zealand has been an incredible experience alongside an exceptional team,” Foran remarked. “I am proud of what we’ve achieved together and how we have positioned the airline for the future.”

Despite industry-wide turbulence, Foran emphasized the unwavering commitment of Air New Zealand employees to delivering excellence.

“I am humbled by the work Air New Zealanders do every day and their extraordinary commitment to each other, our customers, and our country,” he said. “Even amidst challenges outside our control, we have continuously improved our service. I will leave knowing the airline’s foundations are immensely strong and its future is very bright.”

What’s Next for Air New Zealand?

With a strong legacy left behind, Foran’s departure marks a new era for Air New Zealand. The airline will announce its successor in the coming months, ensuring the next leader continues building on Foran’s strategic initiatives.

As one of New Zealand’s most significant corporate figures, Foran’s next venture remains undisclosed, but his impact on the airline industry will be long-lasting.

For continued updates on Air New Zealand’s leadership transition, visit www.airnewzealand.com.