Call for more Geraldton passenger flights

Member for Geraldton Ian Blayney has called on the State Government to increase air services between the Mid West and Perth to ensure local residents stay connected and do not miss out on essential services.

Mr Blayney is frustrated air services have been increased across the State, with Rex increasing flights between Albany and Perth by 70 per cent and 60 per cent increase in trips between Perth and Esperance.

Yet, he said, Geraldton “remained on the sidelines” with only three flights per week, to be increased to four next week.

“The Labor Government cannot continue to grandstand on being committed to sustainable regional and tourism development while Geraldton continues to be overlooked,” Mr Blayney said.

“Infrequent flight services dampen the prospects of WA residents visiting Geraldton as a holiday destination, which is a significant concern given school holidays are not far away.

With several Geraldton businesses recently relocating to Perth to remain viable, Mr Blayney said increasingly infrequent carrier services coupled with high airfares was having a detrimental effect on small businesses and the local economy.

“It’s time the Government starts to make Geraldton a priority and increasing their discussions with the airlines, advocating for more flights to and from the city, would be a good place to start,” he said.