However, the airline’s chief safety and risk officer Nathan McGraw released a statement after the Herald published a story this afternoon.
“We are aware of a matter between two crew members off duty in the United States which is currently being investigated. There was no incident onboard the aircraft.”
The CAA would not comment on whether it was assessing the reported incident or considering regulatory action relating to either pilot.
“We consider all information brought to our attention, and determine whether any regulatory action is required,” a spokesperson told the Herald.
At least two scheduled return flights from San Francisco to Auckland were cancelled as a result of the alleged altercation. Photo / Marty Melville
“Air New Zealand is responsible for employment matters relating to its staff, and CAA cannot comment on those matters.”
Most of the airline’s pilots are members of one of two unions – the New Zealand Air Line Pilots’ Association (NZALPA) or the Federation of Air New Zealand Pilots (FANZP).
A FANZP spokesman said it hadn’t received any relevant requests for services from members in the past month.
“FANZP provides comprehensive personal, legal and welfare support for all of its members when required,” they said.
“We are confident that Air New Zealand has comprehensive policies and procedures in place to deal with any personnel issues that may arise amongst its employees.”
The US’ Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) referred questions to local authorities and the airline.
NZALPA and the hotel have both been approached for comment.
It is understood the alleged incident unfolded in the lobby of a hotel in San Francisco.
A Kiwi scheduled to return home from the US on the cancelled September 7 flight received an email from Air NZ’s Customer Care team advising them of a delay of more than 14 hours.
“Due to sickness, the pilot scheduled to operate your flight is no longer able to operate your service,” it said.
“To get you on your way, we have arranged a replacement pilot, who is on their way to operate your flight to Auckland. Before they can do so, they are required to complete their mandatory rest period.
“We understand a delay of this length is both frustrating and inconvenient, and we’re sincerely sorry for the impact this unexpected disruption will have on your travel plans.”
Affected passengers were rebooked on a September 8 recovery flight and offered accommodation support or reimbursement for any “reasonable costs” incurred.
Those who no longer wished to travel could request a full refund for their booking.
The traveller described it as “a very unfortunate and unusual situation”, but said Air NZ had handled the disruption well.
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