Air New Zealand’s Captain David Morgan Appointed Officer Of New Zealand Order Of Merit

Air New Zealand is proud to acknowledge that Captain
David Morgan has been appointed an Officer of the New
Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) in the 2025 King’s Birthday
Honours List.

This
prestigious honour recognises his extraordinary
contributions to aviation safety, leadership, and mentoring
over more than four decades of service in both in New
Zealand and on the global aviation stage.

Captain
Morgan began his journey with Air New Zealand in 1985,
becoming the Chief Pilot in 2003. In 2005, he joined the
Executive where he remained until earlier this year when he
stepped down from his Executive role. David is now about to
start flying the airline’s Airbus 320
fleet.

Internationally, David’s tenure as Chair
of the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA)
Operations Advisory Council, along with contributions to
ICAO, have elevated Air New Zealand’s standing on the
world stage.

Air New Zealand Chief Executive, Greg
Foran, says David’s influence is deeply embedded into the
airline’s DNA.

“When people
think of Air New Zealand, many will think of Captain David
Morgan. His leadership has helped define who we are today –
an airline built on safety, professionalism, and a strong
purpose. David has played an extraordinary role shaping a
culture of safety, integrity, and professionalism at Air New
Zealand that has seen us repeatedly recognised as the
world’s safest airline. We’re incredibly proud of David
and thrilled to see his remarkable contribution honoured in
this way”.

Dame Therese Walsh, Chair of Air New
Zealand’s Board of Directors, says David’s service has
been nothing short of exceptional.

“His influence
spans every corner of aviation—from safety and
sustainability to mentoring the next generation of leaders.
He has represented the airline and New Zealand on the global
stage countless times and has also worked tirelessly in New
Zealand to support young people coming into the industry.
This honour not only reflects not just his deep expertise,
but also the generosity with which he gives his time to
others. On behalf of the Board, we extend our heartfelt
congratulations and gratitude to David for his ongoing
service to the
airline.”

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