Air New Zealand has grounded its fleet of Beech 1900D aircraft after hairline cracks were found in the tail area of one during routine maintenance work.
Engineers are inspecting the fleet of 18 aircraft, which are operated by Eagle Air. Inspections have been completed on four aircraft, three are affected.
The Beech aircraft have been in service with Eagle Air since October 2001. The 19-seat aircraft operate to 20 destinations around New Zealand.
Eagle Air General Manager Carrie Hurihanganui said Eagle Air services were cancelled this afternoon as a precautionary measure and alternative arrangements would be made for about 800 affected customers.
Eagle Air will use other aircraft from the Air New Zealand fleet instead.
"We apologise to customers for the inevitable inconvenience caused by undertaking a full check of our fleet. However, the safety of our customers, our staff and our aircraft is paramount and non-negotiable for the airline," said Ms Hurihanganui.
Customers travelling with Eagle Air are advised to check flight arrivals and departures on Air New Zealand's website for latest schedules.
A further update will be made this evening.
