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Unfortunately, Freedom Air has ceased operations.
Freedom Air ceased operations in 2008 and is no longer operating flights. Please take a look at the alternative airlines above that operate similar routes to Freedom Air.
About Freedom Air
Freedom Air was a low-cost airline based in New Zealand that operated from 1995 to 2008. It was part of the Air New Zealand Group, offering scheduled passenger services to Australia and Fiji from New Zealand, and charter services within the country. It's main hub was Auckland Airport.
Freedom Air was established in 1995 as a response to competition from Kiwi Travel International Airlines. The airline began flying with a single Boeing 757-200, but eventually grew its fleet to five Boeing 737-300s by 2004, serving various destinations in New Zealand and Australia, including Fiji.
The airline briefly operated domestic routes within New Zealand before focusing on trans-Tasman flights. In 2006, it merged with Air New Zealand's Airbus A320 fleet with one aircraft remaining in the Freedom Air livery. Unfortunately, the airline ceased operations in 2008.
Baggage Allowance
Carry-on Baggage
Carry-on allowances varied somewhat, with mentions of one carry-on item and a personal item not exceeding 7kg (15lbs) total.
Checked Baggage
A standard checked baggage allowance of 20kg (44lbs) for Economy Class and 30kg (66lbs) for Business Class.
Check-In Information
Online Check-In
Passengers could do an online check-in on Freedom Air's website, often 24 hours before the flight. This allowed them to print boarding passes at home or at the airport kiosk.
Airport Check-In
Standard airport check-in desks were also available for those who preferred not to check in online. Opening times likely varied based on airport and flight schedule.
Similar to other airlines, check-in deadlines were likely around 45-60 minutes before departure, potentially with stricter closing times for international flights.
Cabin Classes
Economy Class Seats
- Likely standard 3-3 configuration in most Boeing 737-300s, their main aircraft type. Some mentions suggest potential 2-2 seating in the front rows for Economy Plus or similar upgrade options.
- Reviews from passenger forums describe average legroom and recline compared to other low-cost airlines at the time. Some found it sufficient for shorter flights, others might have missed more spacious options.
- Standard fabric seats without much frills, focusing on practicality and basic comfort.
Economy Class Amenities
- Limited in-flight meal service, likely focused on snacks and drinks for purchase. Water and basic beverages might be complimentary.
- No personal entertainment systems mentioned, suggesting overhead screens with limited content options like movies or TV shows. Some passengers might have brought their own devices for entertainment.
- Standard essentials like blankets, pillows, and headsets for purchase might have been available. Newspapers or magazines might also be offered.
Destinations that Freedom Air flew to
Freedom Air offered budget-friendly flights within New Zealand and Australia, serving a variety of destinations such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Nadi, Christchurch, Wellington and Hamilton, among others.
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Hub Airport
Auckland Airport
Auckland Airport, also known as Tamaki-Makaurau by the locals, is New Zealand's largest and busiest airport. The airport serves as a gateway for international travel to and from many islands within the region as well as New Zealand. It has two main terminals - international and domestic - offering a wide range of facilities and services such as duty-free shopping and restaurants.
Auckland Airport is a hub for Air New Zealand, Jetstar and Virgin Australia. It used to be the hub for Freedom Air before it ceased operations in 2008.
Fleet
Before ceasing operations, Freedom Air's fleet consisted of the following aircraft:
- 12 x Airbus A320-200 (3 leased from Air New Zealand)
- 2 x Boeing 737-200 (1 leased from Airwork)
- 9 x Boeing 737-300 (most leased from Air New Zealand, TACA Airlines, Polynesian Airlines and Transavia)
- 1 x Boeing 757-200 (leased from Britannia Airways)