17 flights to and from New Zealand’s Christchurch cancelled after mosque shootings

National carrier Air New Zealand said some smaller planes travelling on regional routes were cancelled while larger jet planes would continue landing and taking off due to security screening processes already in place.

National carrier Air New Zealand has cancelled at least 17 flights in and out of Christchurch, saying it couldn’t screen customers and their baggage following deadly shootings at two mosques.

Police say at least 49 people were killed in the shootings during Friday prayers at the New Zealand mosques. (AP Photo)

The airline said some smaller planes travelling on regional routes were cancelled while larger jet planes would continue landing and taking off due to security screening processes already in place. (Follow updates here)

Typically, passengers on smaller turboprop aircraft travelling to or from Christchurch don’t go through security screening and are able to walk right onto the plane.

A flight notice board shows cancelled flights into Christchurch, New Zealand on Friday.

Air New Zealand said the safety of its customers and employees was paramount and apologized for the inconvenience.