Sunair Aviation (Tauranga) has secured a NZD2.1 million New Zealand dollar (USD1.2 million) regional infrastructure fund (RIF) loan for essential fleet maintenance, debt refinancing, and the potential acquisition of two larger aircraft, the New Zealand government announced on September 28, 2026.

The government said the proposed aircraft would increase passenger capacity, improve operational flexibility, and reduce Sunair's reliance on its existing six-seat aircraft. It did not disclose the aircraft types, source, or acquisition timetable, however.

"This loan means Sunair can improve efficiency and be better positioned to expand services in the future if the demand is there," regional development minister Shane Jones said.

The financing forms part of a NZD30 million (USD17 million) regional air connectivity package established in 2025 to support vulnerable regional services. Sunair is the sixth operator to receive funding, following Air Chathams, Sounds Air, Island Aviation (New Zealand), Golden Bay Air, and Stewart Island Flights.

Sunair resumed operations in December 2025 following a suspension of services in July, according to New Zealand Ministry of Transport data. The Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand suspended airworthiness certificates for aircraft operated by Sunair in July 2025 over maintenance and safety concerns.

The CAA currently lists Sunair Aviation as a Part 119 air operator certificate holder. Regulator data shows the operator has nine Piper (twin piston) PA-32s and one Cessna (single piston) 172M under its name.

Sunair Aviation serves communities across Northland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Coromandel, Tairāwhiti, and Hawke's Bay. Its current timetable includes Whangarei, Hamilton, NZ, Tauranga, Whakatane, Whitianga, Gisborne, Napier/Hastings, and Wairoa, as well as Great Barrier Island.