Flight school negotiations continue

Published on 04 July 2025

Whanganui Council Holdings Limited chair Carolyn van Leuven says the organisation has taken meaningful steps toward securing the future of flight school operations in Whanganui.

She says, “We have received offers from five different parties in relation to the New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy (NZICPA) business and are working through them.

“Progress is promising at this stage, and we expect to go back to councillors for a decision in the next few weeks. We are working very hard to ensure the best outcome for Whanganui ratepayers from a difficult situation.

“A key focus is on continuation of a flight school in Whanganui, for the benefits it brings to the Whanganui airport and economy.

“We are also looking at what would provide the best and most efficient pathway to get students back on track with their training.”

Weekly costs of running NZICPA are being monitored carefully, and the organisation is operating within its existing funding envelope. Any interim support for students is being funded from this envelope.

NZICPA chair, Matthew Doyle, says fellow director Craig Compain has stepped into an executive role at NZICPA to oversee the running of the academy.

“Ground training remains underway at the school and our first aircraft, ZK-CTQ, has completed its inspection this week. This is an important milestone. The supporting documentation will be submitted to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) this week and we expect other aircraft to follow soon after.

“We are continuing working to lift the suspension of our Part 141 certificate that enables us to train aviation students. Several assurance documents have been sent to CAA, and we await their response.”