A tourism expert doesn't think Kiwi Air's decision to ditch flights to Christchurch will impact the region.

The airline has shelved its plans to fly into the city for now, which were supposed to start in just under two weeks.

It's blaming a number of issues, including Air New Zealand's increasing flights between Christchurch and Tauranga and low advanced sales.

Otago University head of tourism Professor James Higham said it's a shame, but it was expected.

"Bit of a blow to the South Island. Airline connectivity is associated with economic income and productivity through tourism, but Kiwi Regional Air is a small airline, so I wouldn't see it as a major blow."

However it is looking into seasonal flights to the garden city, something which Aviation expert Peter Clark said will be much harder to implement.

"Seasonal operations with one aircraft was always going to be a hard ask, and you've got to offer frequency and a fare level that is going to attract customers."

Mr Clark said it's a tough market, especially in the South Island.

"I think they're under a lot of pressure from the other two carriers. Between Air New Zealand and Jet Star I think it's going to be a struggle for another carrier to come in. It's going to be hard for a new operator."

Kiwi Air will reconsider later in the year.