Auckland air traffic control tower replacement 2024

On 31 March 2025 Airways released the outcome of its Auckland air traffic control tower consultation, that commenced in November 2024.

After carefully considering all feedback received through the consultation, Airways confirmed a decision to proceed with the next stage of assessment for a physical tower. 

The consultation document highlighted several significant risks associated with implementing a digital solution at New Zealand’s largest and busiest airport. These risks include higher ongoing costs, the additional expense of constructing infrastructure to support a digital solution and the operational complexity of Auckland Airport. 

Given these considerations, we have chosen to move forward with the replacement physical tower option. This decision does not rule out the possibility of transitioning to a digital solution in the future but ensures a reliable and sustainable air traffic control system in the immediate term. 

Consultation documents

Auckland Tower Replacement Industry Consultation 2024

Industry consultation clarification February 2025

Outcome and responses

Auckland Control Tower Replacement Decision Document

Submissions

Air New Zealand

Auckland International Airport 

Auckland International Airport supplementary

BARNZ

IATA

NZALPA

Qantas