‘Worst landing ever’: Air New Zealand flight battles turbulence in Wellington skies

A routine morning flight turned into a harrowing experience for passengers aboard Air New Zealand Flight NZ417 on Monday, as the aircraft struggled to land amid Wellington’s notorious winds.

Departing from Auckland, the Airbus A320 encountered severe turbulence during its initial approach to Wellington Airport, forcing pilots to abort the landing and circle for a second attempt.

“It was the worst approach ever experienced,” said Kerry Verberne, a Wellington local and passenger on the flight.


Another passenger, Josh Forrest, described the landing as “pretty dicey.”

The flight eventually landed safely on the second attempt.

Wellington Airport is known for its challenging landings, especially during north-westerly conditions, due to strong and gusty winds channeled by the Cook Strait.

This incident follows recent severe weather in the region. Wellington experienced wind gusts surpassing 150 km/h earlier in May, leading to widespread disruptions, including the cancellation of approximately 200 flights and power outages affecting thousands. These winds are funneled through the strait, creating turbulent conditions that can make landings particularly difficult.

These extreme conditions led to widespread disruptions, including the cancellation of approximately 200 flights and power outages affecting thousands of residents.

Despite the unsettling experience, the professionalism of the flight crew ensured a safe landing, highlighting the challenges pilots face when navigating Wellington's unpredictable weather.

Wellington continues to experience inclement weather as of 26 May, with light rain and winds gusting up to 65 km/h. Travelers are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and flight statuses when planning their journeys.