Sharp brings back Melbourne-King Island with government help

It comes after Sharp axed its Melbourne-King Island route in May, saying it was not viable without government assistance, though later signalled it would re-examine King Island connectivity following the withdrawal of a Rex service from Burnie.

“King Island has been an important part of the Sharp Airlines network for generations, and today’s announcements demonstrate the confidence we have in the Island’s future,” said airline CEO Alistair Dorward.

“The award of the Australia Post contract and the return of Melbourne services this summer are a direct result of strong collaboration between Sharp Airlines, the Tasmanian Government and key stakeholders — and they provide real certainty for residents, tourism operators and businesses heading into the peak season.

“There has been encouraging progress over recent months, and we are actively working with the Government and stakeholders on longer-term solutions that will deliver sustainable, reliable connectivity for King Island well beyond this summer.”

The news comes as the Tasmanian Government this week unveils its Tasmanian Access Strategy 2040, which includes building a “sustainable, affordable and reliable air and sea network”.

“Whether you live remotely and need specialised health services, are a regional producer relying on freight services, or welcome visitors from around the world, the strength of our air and sea connections matter,” said Roger Jaensch, Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events.

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“Priorities of the Strategy include growing frequency on routes to and from mainland capital cities, securing direct seasonal air services from a key Asian hub, building New Zealand services to year-round, and maximising the opportunities created by the two new Spirit of Tasmania vessels.

“With tourism contributing $4.5 billion to our economy and supporting one in six Tasmanian jobs, improving access is critical to growing our visitor economy.”

According to the Minister, the government’s plans include addressing the “ongoing access challenges for regional communities, particularly the commercial viability of services to King Island and Flinders Island”.

“I understand how distressing this has been for businesses and the community. While long-term solutions are needed to address ongoing capacity challenges, immediate action is required for the 2026–27 summer season,” he said.

“That’s why we’re delivering services between Melbourne (Essendon) and King Island through Sharp Airlines from October 2026 until end of April 2027.

“We are working with Sharp Airlines to finalise schedules, with up to six services per week planned over the peak summer period.”

For its part, Sharp also says the restored services will “deliver a direct boost to King Island’s visitor economy during the peak summer months – supporting tourism operators, golf travel, local businesses and producers, and providing confidence for forward bookings”.

“For local residents and businesses, the additional capacity will mean more options and greater flexibility when travelling to and from mainland Victoria during one of the Island’s busiest periods,” the airline said.

“Sharp Airlines will continue to work with the Tasmanian Government and stakeholders on longer-term solutions to support sustainable, reliable and affordable connectivity for King Island.”

Bookings for the summer services are expected to open in coming days.