Auckland Airport handled 3.8 per cent more passengers in November than a year ago, and airports it has invested in experienced even stronger growth.

The first of Air New Zealand's new fleet of 777-300ER aircraft took off from Boeing's Seattle headquarters yesterday, and began what the airline is calling an economy-class revolution.

The handover of Air NZ's first 777-300 aircraft is the biggest development in commercial air travel in 30 years, the airline says.

Air NZ and Virgin Blue have won approval from Transport Minister Steven Joyce to cooperate on routes across the Tasman.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has given approval for the proposed trans-Tasman alliance between Air New Zealand and Virgin Blue.

Construction work will be finished in time for Rugby World Cup, says chief.

A structure likened to the Starship Enterprise is the centrepiece of a $50 million retail redevelopment at Auckland International Airport's departures area.

Air New Zealand is in talks with other airlines wanting to use its new "cuddle class" economy seats.

A new air link between China and New Zealand could boost tourist spending by up to $50 million a year.

A cut-price Asian airline is promising the "cheapest international airfares New Zealand has seen" when it launches in Christchurch today.

Air New Zealand is adding extra charges to its booking process which will increase costs for every customer who pays for flights by credit, debit or charge card.