A Farewell to a Legend: Air New Zealand's Captain David Morgan Steps Aside After 40 Years

After four decades of dedicated service, Captain David Morgan, a familiar face in the skies and a highly respected figure in New Zealand aviation, has announced his retirement from his leadership position at Air New Zealand. While stepping down from his corporate role, Captain Morgan will continue to fly for the airline, adding the Airbus A320 to his impressive repertoire of aircraft types, which already includes five other models.

A Career Filled with Triumphs and Challenges

Captain Morgan's journey with Air New Zealand began in 1985, when he joined the airline as a pilot for the Fokker F27 Friendship. His unwavering commitment and exceptional skills saw him rise through the ranks, ultimately becoming the Chief Pilot in 2003. Two years later, he joined the executive team, assuming the role of Chief Operational Integrity and Safety Officer. This tenure has spanned some of the airline's most notable milestones as well as some of its most turbulent times.

A Deep Connection to the People

While Captain Morgan's achievements are numerous, he emphasizes that it's the people who made his time at the airline truly special. In his own words, “For me, the special part of the airline is our people, and I’ve had the pleasure of working with so many incredible Air New Zealanders throughout my career so far.” He acknowledges the invaluable contributions of everyone, from flight crew and engineers to baggage handlers and colleagues around the world.

A Heartfelt Farewell

Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran expressed deep gratitude for Captain Morgan's dedication and the immense impact he has had on the airline. “When people think of Air New Zealand, many Kiwi will know or have heard of Captain David Morgan. He’s represented the airline on the ground and in the skies with the highest level of excellence,” Foran said. He also acknowledged Captain Morgan's approachable nature and willingness to share his vast experience and knowledge with the next generation of airline leaders.

A Legacy of Excellence

Captain Morgan's departure marks the end of an era for Air New Zealand. His commitment to safety, operational excellence, and the well-being of the airline's employees has left an enduring legacy. While the airline will miss his leadership, they are fortunate to have his continued presence in the cockpit, ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers on board their flights.

The Future Takes Flight

The search for a successor to Captain Morgan's position is underway. However, he will remain on the leadership team until early 2025 to ensure a smooth transition and provide support to his successor. This commitment underscores his dedication to the airline and his commitment to a successful handover of his responsibilities.

A Toast to a Legend

As Captain David Morgan embarks on a new chapter in his career, we can only offer our heartfelt thanks for his extraordinary service to Air New Zealand. His dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence have made an indelible mark on the airline's history and the aviation industry in New Zealand. We wish him the best in his future endeavors, knowing that he will continue to make a positive contribution to the world of aviation.