But it has had no overnight air traffic control abilities, meaning aircraft unable to land at either of those two cities must fly a long way to land safely. The likes of this P-8A Poseidon landing at RNZAF Base Ōhakea might, in 18 months, have the more frequent company of jumbo jets. The relevant air traffic control system is not yet available overnight. And Ōhakea has been available to airlines as an alternate runway only between 5am and 10.30pm. It was important for the Air Force base to be available at all times, O’Brien told the Herald.

Source: New Zealand Herald February 25, 2026 19:10 UTC