Call for air service to Kalbarri and Shark Bay

4/06/03
The State Government has called for expressions of interest in providing an airline service from Perth to Kalbarri and Shark Bay.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the Government was encouraging airlines to put forward creative approaches that would assist in the growth of two of Western Australia's outstanding tourism destinations.
Ms MacTiernan said the EoI process was an initiative of the State Government's air services policy which aimed to ensure sustainable air services for regional communities.
"Operators will be asked to detail their proposals including aircraft type, frequency of service and marketing plans to promote and develop the service," she said.
"The selected operator will have sole operating rights, for a period of three years, with an optional two year extension, based on performance.
"The new service will replace the current twice weekly Perth-Geraldton-Kalbarri return service and the Perth-Shark Bay return service, which operates four times each week."
The Minister said the State Government would also permit the operator to have some access to Geraldton to ensure the viability of the service.
"The Intrastate Air Services Review commissioned by the State Government last year determined that air services to Geraldton could sustain some competition if managed carefully," she said.
Stakeholder representatives from Geraldton, Kalbarri and Shark Bay will join Department for Planning and Infrastructure and Western Australian Tourism Commission officers in assessing the submissions.
"This process will be undertaken in full consultation with the communities that will use the proposed service to help ensure that it meets their needs," Ms MacTiernan said.
Submissions will close on June 25.
Minister's office: 9213 6400