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Sounds Air is a small regional airline based in New Zealand. The airline was founded in 1986 by couple Cliff and Diane Marchant. Their vision was to provide low-cost flights to the Marlborough Sounds, a collection of ancient sunken river valleys filled with the waters of the Pacific Ocean, at the northern end of the South Island of New Zealand.
Top Tip: Looking for flights within New Zealand? Take a look at our guide to domestic flights within New Zealand to find out more about flying internally within the country, including airlines you can fly with, popular routes, and FAQs.
History
From just one Cessna Caravan operating a single route across the Cook Straight, Sounds Air has grown rapidly over the last 30 years; in 2015, the airline carried 78,000 passengers, which compares to 14,000 passengers in 2003. As of 2021, as well as flying to Marlborough Sounds, the airline also operates both scheduled passenger flights and private charter flights to Cook Strait, Wellington, and Nelson.
Baggage Policy
Carry-on Baggage
One small personal item may be taken on board with you such as a laptop or handbag. All passengers are allowed 20 kg, including carry-on.
Checked Baggage
Checked luggage must be checked-in 30 minutes prior to departure. The 20 kg limit applies including carry-on and check-in luggage. Excess baggage beyond the free allowance will be subject to space availability on the day of travel. Additional charges will also apply.
Fare Classes
No matter what fare you choose, expect to receive the same quality service that the airline has provided since 1987.
Economy Class
Sounds air offers a standard class fare, akin to what might be expected from an economy class fare. However, the airline does recognise that different flyers have different needs. Therefore, Sounds Air offers three grades of fare, including:
Sounds Best - the most flexible fare, for passengers with dynamic schedules. Passengers can change or cancel their flight for free of charge, up to 1 hour prior to scheduled departure time.
Sounds Great - the classic middle range fare. Passengers are still able to cancel or change their flights prior to the day of departure, but will be charged $25 NZD per passenger.
Sounds Good - the least expensive fare, for passengers with firm travel plans that want to fly for less. Passengers are still able to cancel or change their flights up to the day of departure, but will be charged $40 NZD per passenger.
Check-In Information
Online Check-In
Sounds Air does not provide online check-in service.
Airport Check-In
Airport check-in counters close 30 minutes before departure.
Please leave plenty of time for check-in to avoid any unexpected delays. The airline reserves the right to deny boarding if passenger is late for check-in.
Destinations that Sounds Air flies to
As of 2021, the airline operates scheduled flights to a number of destinations in New Zealand, including: Wellington, Picton, Nelson, Blenheim, Paraparaumu, Westport, Taupo and Christchurch.
There are only domestic flights currently available at the moment. The airline also operates charter flights for groups. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the airline has been chartering flights for essential workers and medical patients to help with the situation.
Alternatives to Sounds Air
Air Chathams is another regional carrier, flying to New Zealand's beautiful Chatham Islands. The following airlines also operate domestic flights within New Zealand:
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Hub Airport
Wellington International Airport
Wellington International Airport. It is an international airport located in the suburb of Rongotai in Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand. Wellington is the third busiest airport in New Zealand. Airlines that fly to Wellington International Airport include Air New Zealand, Fiji Airways, Qantas, and Virgin Australia.
Fleet
As of July 2020, Sounds Air's fleet consists of the following aircraft:
- 4 x Cessna 208 Caravan
- 6 x Pilatus PC-12
These types of aircraft are ideal for the types of flights Sounds Air operates.
News
8th January 2021
Sounds Air aims to be first regional airline to offer zero-emission flights
Last year, Sounds Air stated that it is endeavouring to become the first regional airline to offer zero-emission flights. As the new year begins, the airline is already taking action to meet this target. The airline has signed a letter of intent to purchase electric planes. These planes will be from Swedish company 'Heart Aerospace', which is aiming to manufacture ES-19 aircraft for commercial flights by 2026.
15th September 2020
Sounds Air adds Christchurch to Wanaka service
New Zealand based airline Sounds Air has begun taking reservations for its new route, from Christchurch to Wanaka, which will begin in November. The route will be operated by the airline's Pilatus PC-12 aircraft, and will be operated 11 times weekly.