Tourism Geraldton: More Boeing 737 charter flights in the wings

Tourism Geraldton chairman Scott Cogar said it was likely the Broadwater Hotel would charter more Boeing 737 flights, after the first chartered flight of the plane to the city lands later this month.

The Boeing 737 will land at Geraldton Airport on Sunday, May 27, carrying passengers to the region’s Tourism Investment Summit on May 28.

We could potentially charter up to four of these flights a year to support major events and promotions.

Mr Cogar, who is also managing director of Broadwater Hotels and Resorts Australia, said depending on the success of the first flight it was likely the company would charter more.

“The initial indications at the moment are very strong,” he said.

“it’s a huge opportunity for our region.

“We could potentially charter up to four of these flights a year to support major events and promotions in Geraldton and our region.”

The flight will leave Perth Airport at 1pm and arrive in Geraldton at 2pm after a scheduled low flyover of the Abrolhos Islands and Pink Lake near Port Gregory.

“The flight and summit have come at a perfect time and will help incredibly to raise awareness and profile for the whole region, including our spectacular natural attractions and incredible culture here,” Mr Cogar said.

The return flight will leave Geraldton Airport at 4pm.

Tickets for the flight are $99 one-way or $198 return.

Mid West Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive Glen Whistler-Carr said the flight was important to show Geraldton was open to progression and forward thinking.

“Geraldton’s ready for development of a tourism industry which will be sustainable for the region,” he said.

Mr Whistler-Carr was the first to buy a ticket for the flight and the Tourism Investment Summit.

“I think the tourism summit is going to be fantastic and I encourage all businesses, whether tourism or otherwise, to attend as the speakers will cover a wide variety of subjects,” he said.

“Businesses need to put the welcome mat out and make your windows vibrant to encourage people through the door, remembering that they are going to see this whole town with fresh eyes.”