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The regional aviation industry is distinguished by its commitment to the many regions and communities it serves. (Sharp Airlines)
What is regional aviation?
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A very experienced and respected person in the aviation industry asked the question recently, “what is regional aviation?” It was a thoughtful, leading question meant to highlight some important changes that have occurred in regional aviation over the past decade.
A number of regional airlines are now operating international routes alongside their more traditional roles of flying passengers and freight to regional and remote communities. While piston aircraft are still in active and safe service, there has been heavy investment in modern turboprop and regional jet aircraft. In most instances, and particularly among RAAA members, flying to and from regional Australia matches the safety and passenger standards available on the major capital routes.
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In addition, the needs of the mining industry have meant a significant expansion and upgrading of some fleets and the development of services to new mine sites.
Regional operators serving the mining companies and regional communities in general have made large financial investments in the upgrades.
They have displayed significant entrepreneurial courage and skill.
While the regional aviation industry must adapt to market forces and change in response, a definite, positive industry culture has remained. The industry is distinguished by its commitment to the many regions and communities it serves. You only have to spend a day in the company of staff from the regional operators and businesses to know that it is not just money that drives them. They understand that they are providing essential services, giving towns the confidence to grow further.
In short, they have a passion for their industry and it shows. This has always been a distinguishing characteristic of regional aviation.
It is vital therefore that regional aviation is seen as a central part of the national infrastructure. Australia, with its relatively small population but vast area, has the opportunity to develop and enhance communities away from the coastal fringe. The many airports that were surveyed and built alongside towns during WW2 and the 1950s are a great legacy and must be protected. They should be the shared responsibility of all levels of government and not just left to local government.
Regional airfields can be excellent sites for non-aviation light industry, providing another source of income to enable the maintenance and growth of the airfield.
It is important that all who are interested in the expansion of regional aviation take every opportunity to ensure that regional aviation infrastructure is firstly protected, then developed for use in operations over many years to come. There is a danger that aviation infrastructure is viewed as disposable and available to the highest bidder.
This perception must be challenged. If the infrastructure is diminished or lost, it is rarely replaced.
I encourage you all to come to the RAAA Convention at the Hyatt Coolum from September 17-19. There will be an excellent range of speakers and a comprehensive trade show. If you have an interest in regional aviation you won’t want to miss it. See you there!
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