Türkiye and New Zealand have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening bilateral air transport relations and expanding cooperation in civil aviation, Türkiye's Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure said.

The agreement was signed by Kemal Yüksek, Director General of Civil Aviation of Türkiye, and Greg Lewis, New Zealand's aviation representative, according to the ministry.

Under the memorandum, the existing allocation of 14 weekly passenger flight frequencies between the two countries will be maintained. The arrangement also allows designated airlines from both sides to exercise fifth-freedom traffic rights through two intermediate points to be determined in the future, providing greater operational flexibility and the potential to expand international route networks.

The ministry said the agreement forms part of Türkiye's broader efforts to strengthen its position as a global aviation hub by leveraging its strategic location and advanced transportation infrastructure.

Officials expect the memorandum to enhance civil aviation cooperation, improve air connectivity, and support the growth of passenger traffic and commercial links between Türkiye and New Zealand.

The deal marks a new step in aviation relations between the two countries as Türkiye continues to pursue international air transport agreements aimed at expanding its global connectivity.(ILKHA)