The boss of one of New Zealand's smallest airlines is confident a crowd-funding campaign will help it buy a second aircraft.

Kiwi Regional Airlines has confirmed it plans to raise up to $2 million dollars to buy a Saab 340 QC as a backup for its existing aircraft.

The plane would be used when its other plane is undergoing maintenance, but would also be used to fly additional routes.

Chief executive Ewan Wilson said airlines are an inherently risk business, but they can also be very successful and Kiwi has got off to a good staff.

He said a recent law change means businesses can raise a small amount of equity through crowd-funding platforms.