Air New Zealand story began in April 1940 when its forerunner airline Tasman Empire Airways Limited (TEAL) was incorporated. TEAL began its first trans Tasman services with flying boats and over the years steadily expanded the size and scope of its operations and the extent of its international network. The route network was expanded from Australia and the Pacific to Asia the USA the UK and Europe. In October 1953 TEAL became jointly owned by the New Zealand and Australian Governments and in April 1961 the New Zealand Government assumed full ownership. In addition to TEAL operating international services the New Zealand Government established NZ National Airways Corporation (NAC) in 1947. NAC was the primary operator of domestic air services between major centres and provincial cities and towns and along with TEAL would later form the basis for today Air New Zealand.Air New Zealand story began in April 1940 when its forerunner airline Tasman Empire Airways Limited (TEAL) was incorporated. TEAL began its first trans Tasman services with flying boats and over the years steadily expanded the size and scope of its operations and the extent of its international network. The route network was expanded from Australia and the Pacific to Asia the USA the UK and Europe. In October 1953 TEAL became jointly owned by the New Zealand and Australian Governments and in April 1961 the New Zealand Government assumed full ownership. In addition to TEAL operating international services the New Zealand Government established NZ National Airways Corporation (NAC) in 1947. NAC was the primary operator of domestic air services between major centres and provincial cities and towns and along with TEAL would later form the basis for today Air New Zealand.