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Sharp Airlines says it is looking into addressing connectivity concerns to King Island following news that Rex is axing Burnie–King Island services.
Burnie–King Island is one of two Tasmanian routes Rex is cutting from 22 June, with Melbourne–Devonport also facing the chop. Sharp Airlines currently flies to King Island from both Burnie and Launceston, having itself cut a Melbourne (Essendon) service this month.
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In a statement, Sharp CEO Alistair Dorward said the airline “has a long history of serving King Island and remains deeply committed to supporting regional connectivity outcomes across Bass Strait”.
“While it is too early to provide specific updates at this stage, Sharp Airlines is actively working with key stakeholders regarding future capacity requirements and longer-term connectivity needs for the Island, including how best to address the capacity previously provided by Rex on the Burnie route,” he said.
“As part of this process, Sharp Airlines is reviewing a range of options to ensure future arrangements support both community needs and a more sustainable operating environment.
“We recognise the importance of certainty for residents, businesses and tourism operators, particularly given the role forward bookings play in supporting travel demand and broader economic activity.
“Work is progressing and we expect to provide a further update to the community in the coming days as discussions continue.”
The news comes after Sharp ended a service between Essendon and King Island after 11 years on 2 May, having previously warned that the route “requires a level of government support to remain viable”.
“Despite Sharp Airlines’ strong commitment to serving King Island and the valuable short-term assistance provided by the Tasmanian Government, it is no longer sustainable for Sharp Airlines to maintain services on this route without Government support and/or Industry support,” a statement posted by Essendon Fields Airport read last month.
“Sharp Airlines and Essendon Fields Airport are immensely grateful to passengers and the community that utilised these services over the years.
“Existing Essendon Fields Airport connections by Sharp Airlines to Flinders Island remain unchanged. Sharp Airlines will also continue to offer charter services to King Island for tourism, freight, and community events.”
Rex will replace its Burnie–King Island services with 18 Melbourne–Burnie and seven Melbourne–King Island flights per week.
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