I am surprised that there isn't already a thread on this - but I couldn't find one .
I guess this will be the first regular 787 service to AKL - it will start at least two years before NZ starts to take delivery of its -9s.
http://www.continental.com/web/en-US....aspx?i=PRNEWS
HOUSTON, May 26, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Continental Airlines (NYSE: CAL) today announced another major step in development of its Houston hub with plans to begin nonstop Boeing 787 flights to Auckland, New Zealand on Nov. 16, 2011 (subject to government approval).
Auckland will be added to the 63 international destinations that Continental currently serves nonstop from Houston, and will become the 26th destination in Continental's Pacific network. Continental serves more destinations in the Pacific region than any other U.S. carrier.
Continental will be one of just three airlines flying nonstop between North America and New Zealand. At approximately 7,400 miles, the new route will be the longest from Continental's Houston hub. Continental plans to operate the route on a daily basis, with five-times-weekly service during certain periods in the first year of operation.
I wonder why they say 'subject to government approval' since New Zealand and the US have had Open Skies for years ?