Funding for new Karratha to Geraldton flight welcome, but ratepayers expected to help foot the bill

Geraldton locals can soon swap the 11-hour road trip to Karratha for a quick trip on a plane, with a new flight path to connect the two cities. The State Government last week announced a $4.1 million commitment to expanding regional flight networks across WA as part of its 2022-23 Budget. The plans include the addition of a Karratha to Geraldton air service, with the new route aimed at reducing travel time for fly-in, fly-out workers who travel from the Mid West to the Pilbara via Perth. Regional airline Aviair also plans to upgrade the planes on its regional network from nine-seater to 70-seater aircraft. City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn welcomed the announcement, but said local government, businesses and ratepayers would be required to foot part of the bill for the project. “The announcement connecting Karratha to Geraldton still requires a significant investment in ratepayers to be matching State funding,” he said. “As a city we need to work on how much ratepayers want to contribute to this announcement, because it is dependent on council and business investment as well. “The council will deliberate its contribution to the flight program as part of its budget deliberations, which are under way as we speak.” Of the funding, $1.8 million has been allocated in the 2022-23 budget year, while the remaining funding will be spent over the next four years. Speaking from Geraldton on Friday, Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the expanded air service would help keep airfare costs down, boost flight capacity and stimulate new business opportunities between regions. “Having larger aircraft capacity on the air routes will not only allow more passengers to use the services but will stimulate demand by reducing airfares,” she said. “This expanded air service will open up new employment, business and leisure opportunities across the Mid West, Pilbara and Kimberley regions.” The State Government’s promise to cap regional airfares comes into effect from July 1. Flights to and from Geraldton will be capped at $199 one-way as it is within 1000km of Perth.