Michael Haines

An enthusiastic aviation specialist with over 30 years experience. Mike’s career has taken him through a wide range of roles—from regulatory and operational work to technical leadership —across some of New Zealand’s key aviation organizations, including Christchurch International Airport, the Civil Aviation Authority, and Airways NZ. 

In 2020, he started his own aviation consulting business. He has worked with 62 clients across 25 countries, helping solve complex aviation challenges and improving safety and efficiency around the world. One of the ongoing roles is with the Pacific Aviation Safety Office, where he is the Aerodrome and Ground Aids Technical Advisor for 10 Pacific Island States. He also contributes to international projects with the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and ICAO, and recently has added aviation training under the European Aviation Safety Agency to the mix.

He has a Bachelor of Aviation and a Master of Aviation Management, and a private pilot licence (aeroplane). From small regional airfields to international aerodromes and national aviation planning Mike brings a diverse range of skills and passion.

Mike has been involved in solar airfield solutions including lighting and PAPI solutions since 2020.  He has been involved in over 10 large scale solar projects on or near aerodromes.

Mike's broad technical knowledge and experience includes aerodromes, air navigation, airspace, aeronautical telecommunications, air traffic services, instrument procedure design and aeronautical information management. Always learning and willing to share his knowledge, Mike delivers a 300 level aviation management course at Massey University, New Zealand, on design of airways and air traffic systems.