NSW renews western air transport subsidy for another year

“Under the agreement, FlyPelican operates six return flights each week between Sydney and Cobar, while Air Link operates eight return routes each week servicing Bourke, Walgett and Lightning Ridge,” the government said.

“A survey conducted by the Far North West Joint Organisation found 94 per cent of residents and stakeholders consider the flights critical, with health care and medical travel the most common reason for using the service at 35 per cent.

“The survey also found the flights are saving passengers on average up to seven hours for a one-way trip compared with road travel.”

According to Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty, the flights are used by residents, businesses, visitors, doctors, specialists, nurses, social workers, trades and other essential workers in the regions.

“Reliable air services are helping keep Western NSW communities connected to the people, services and opportunities that matter most,” she said.

“For people in Bourke, Walgett, Lightning Ridge and Cobar, these flights make it easier to access health care, education, jobs, business opportunities and stay connected with family and friends.

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“Extending this subsidy gives communities greater certainty and confidence, while supporting the strong regional connections that help Western NSW thrive.

“The Minns Labor Government is proud to continue supporting these vital services and investing in the future of communities across Western NSW.”

Air Link has welcomed the extension of funding, with executive director Mark Kline saying it provides certainty for towns and cities in the west that rely on the services.

“For the communities we serve, these flights are a lifeline. They provide a fast and reliable connection to Dubbo where many healthcare, business and other services are located,” he said.

“The distances involved in western NSW are enormous and without these flights, people face many hours on the road each way. A reliable air services makes a real difference to people who need to travel, particularly those travelling for medical appointments, work or to access essential services.”

According to fellow Air Link executive director Mark Wardrop, the services are “not commercially sustainable without continued government support”.

“We welcome the Minns Government’s decision to extend the subsidy for another year and, importantly, its commitment to work with the region on a longer-term solution beyond November 2027,” he said.

“Air Link is proud to play our part by providing a safe and reliable air service, but maintaining connectivity to small and remote communities requires a genuine partnership between all stakeholders.”

The subsidy is funded through the NSW Government’s $400 million Regional Development Trust.