City and Chamber calls for flight stability

Flights to and from Geraldton are expected to decrease further this month, prompting the City of Greater Geraldton and Mid West Chamber of Commerce and Industry to call for action so that local industries aren’t further impacted.

Qantas regional flights were disrupted in June and promised to return to normal mid-July.

Several weeks on, flights have been reduced further and departure times have now been delayed to later in the day.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said it was having an impact on both the business and tourism industries.

“It’s disappointing that we are looking at more reductions this month along with many flights being moved to the middle of the day, which impedes travel plans,” he said.

“Most travellers accessing the flight connecting Geraldton to Perth represent our business community. This in turn impacts our region, and we are calling for action and stability from Qantas.

“Because of these changes, it is becoming harder for healthcare specialists who historically treated Midwest patients for the day to do so now. This is just one example that’s becoming a growing concern.”

Mid West Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chief Executive Officer Joanne Fabling said the flight alterations are causing significant challenge for local and visiting businesses.

“Qantas reduced their flights to alleviate pressure on the intrastate and interstate routes to bring certainty back into their timetable whilst training new staff. We accepted this as it was put to us as it was only for a short period,” she said.

“Three months on, we are being further reduced to a middle of the day flight once a day. A schedule that does not reflect any thought into the business, health or tourism sector in either direction.

“We understand that COVID-19 has had an impact on aviation and there is going to take some time for recovery, however Geraldton is the largest regional city north of Perth. It deserves more consultation on changes to schedules prior to implementation.”

In June, Qantas cancelled a number of flights to better prevent last minute cancellations as well as changes. This month, flights are expected to reduce further.

As a result of these ongoing changes, an increased number of travellers are now resorting to driving to and from Perth. 

The City of Greater Geraldton and Mid West Chamber of Commerce and Industry understands this news will disappoint the community further and are advocating for increased flight stability and frequency.