The introduction of Chinese (PRC) aid financed aircraft and training facilities at the request of the Tongan government introduced competition to Chathams Pacific's routes.As of January 2025, the Air Chathams fleet includes the following aircraft:[18] The ATR, Saabs and Dc-3 are used across the company's operations as well as contract freight services and charter work.[19] The airline's Aero Commander 690 has been wet-leased out for aerial mapping and survey duties,[20] while the DC-3 is often chartered out for scenic flights and tours in a retro NAC livery.The ATR 72-500 runs flights for Tauck Tours in summer seasons, while assisting with peak traffic to Whanganui in the winter.On the 21st of November 2024 an ATR72-500 flew from Auckland to Invercargill and return for a private charter, the longest non-stop flight by an ATR carrying passengers in New Zealand.
Air Chathams Convair 580 at Wellington, 21 May 2007
Air Chathams Fairchild Metroliner ZK-CID
Two of the Air Chathams Saab 340s
Air Chathams' NAC livered DC-3 parked up at their ramp at Auckland Airport.
The single Air Chathams owned Aero Commander at Auckland Airport.
Air Chathams ATR72-500
ZK-CIZ (Saab 340) at Auckland Airport back in June 2021.
The Air Chathams CV-580 'Toroa Freighter' in Auckland.