Air Hawke’s Bay relocates some flight training operations to Hawke’s Bay Airport

From January 2026, Hastings Aerodrome–based pilot training school Air Hawke’s Bay will relocate part of its operations to Hawke’s Bay Airport to support growth and expand its training capability.
General Manager Julie Wakefield says the move marks a significant step in the school’s development.
“By relocating a portion of our pilot training to Napier, we can grow our operations and train more pilots than ever before.
“Since the pandemic, there has been a global shortage of pilots. Increasing our training capacity means we can help meet that demand—both here in New Zealand and internationally.
“At Bridge Pa we are constrained and unable to expand, so having the support of Hawke’s Bay Airport is vital to our ability to grow. This is especially important for international students, who currently make up 50% of our cohort and typically live in Hawke’s Bay for 12 months while completing their training—contributing approximately $1.3 million to the local economy.
“It is an exciting step for our business, and we look forward to settling into our second home at Hawke’s Bay Airport,” says Ms Wakefield.
Hawke’s Bay Airport CEO Nick Flack says the aviation sector is experiencing a sustained shortage of pilots.
“We are pleased to welcome Air Hawke’s Bay to our campus and support the future of aviation training. Their arrival aligns strongly with our strategic plans to grow general aviation at the airport and will contribute to a vibrant and sustainable aviation community here in Hawke’s Bay.
“By basing part of their operation with us, Air Hawke’s Bay will be able to increase the number of pilots they train—something the industry urgently needs,” says Mr Flack.
Air Hawke’s Bay has operated from the Hastings Aerodrome for almost 30 years and employs more than 15 flight instructors. The school holds advanced aviation training accreditations, including the CAA Part 141 certificate, enabling the instruction of domestic and international students progressing toward commercial pilot careers around the world.
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