New regulated air services to boost WA tourism opportunities

10/08/05
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan announced today that Skywest Airlines and Skippers Aviation were the preferred applicants for exclusive licences to operate on regulated non-jet regional airline networks in Western Australia.
Ms MacTiernan congratulated the two local airlines on their successful applications to operate separate networks in the south and south-east of the State. The regions will be divided into:

• a coastal network from Perth to Albany, Carnarvon, Esperance, Exmouth (Learmonth), Geraldton, Kalbarri and Shark Bay (to be operated by Skywest); and

• a northern Goldfields network from Perth to Leonora, Leinster, Laverton, Wiluna, Meekatharra and Mt Magnet, with limited access to Geraldton (to be operated by Skippers).

"The decision to regulate the non-jet airports was necessary to ensure economically viable and sustainable air services," the Minister said.
"The decision to put the regulated networks to competitive tender ensures that at the same time, we get the best prices and services for airline users.
"The development of the coastal and northern Goldfields networks was based on extensive analysis and consultation with regional communities, airline companies, local government, and the tourism and resources sectors."
Ms MacTiernan said the Government also appreciated the support of those in the resources sector who utilised scheduled services to regional communities to give local communities more benefit from mining operations in their areas.
The level of service has been maintained or enhanced to all ports in both networks, as the Gallop Government improves the quality of services to all Western Australians, wherever they live.
Geraldton will retain competition with Skywest and Skippers increasing services from 25 to 29 direct services per week, which reflects the increased economic activity in the Mid-West and the Government's commitment to support infrastructure investment in the region.
Kalbarri and Monkey Mia will receive additional services and improved service levels with larger aircraft operating, which is very good news for tourism in the Mid-West and Gascoyne regions.
In the northern Goldfields network, Skippers will increase services to Meekatharra, Leonora and Leinster.
"Skywest has indicated that jet services can be provided to some ports if passenger numbers warrant and I expect that ports such as Exmouth will continue to receive some jet services in support of both tourism and resources development in the area," Ms MacTiernan said.
The Minister said each airline licence would be valid for five years, which would be comprised of three years with the option of a further two-year extension.
"We need to give the airlines an incentive to build up the business in the region," she said.
"Both airlines are experienced in servicing regional communities in WA and have the aircraft, equipment and expertise to fulfil the requirements to operate the networks.
"The Government will work closely with both airlines with a view to improving services and keeping fares competitive, so as to provide the best level of service for our regional communities.
"On-going consultation with regional communities and key stakeholders will be an important aspect to continuously develop these services."
Minister's office: 9213 6400