The 'Love Plane': Airline offers overnight matchmaking flight
Last Updated: Tuesday, May 19, 2009 | 10:41 AM ET
CBC News
Air New Zealand is launching what it calls the worlds' first matchmaking flight — an overnight trip from Los Angeles to Auckland, New Zealand.
For a round-trip ticket price starting at $780, singles can mingle at a pre-launch party Oct. 13 at the Los Angeles airport before boarding a 13-hour flight, where food, drink, entertainment and games await.
After landing, passengers will party at the Convention Centre in Auckland, which can be a prelude to travel in New Zealand with a chosen companion, presuming the couple has hit it off.
Customers are encouraged to fill out an online dating profile six months before the flight.
While the flight is billed as a way to get to know "The One," options for relationships include U.S., Canadian or Kiwi boyfriend or girlfriend, plain old friend of any nationality, and even the more distant "business contact."
"If your dating profile says you enjoy fine wine and long walks on the beach, then New Zealand is your perfect place for romance," the airline's marketing manager, Steve Bayliss, told the New Zealand Herald.
"Plus our down-to-earth, warm and wonderful people are an added bonus. And let's not forget the splendid Kiwi accent, what more could an American guy or girl looking for love ask for?"
