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The NSW government is extending a $2 million subsidy scheme for regional flights in the state’s west.
The agreement between the state government and the Far North-West Joint Organisation (FNWJO) will see subsidies continue until at least November 2025 for Air Link’s services from Dubbo to Bourke, Walgett and Lightning Ridge, as well as FlyPelican’s service from Sydney to Cobar.
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“For Sydneysiders, air travel is an easily accessible convenience, but for people living in Western NSW, it is not so easy,” said Tara Moriarty, Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW and Western NSW.
“This funding will help commercial operators offer a two-way service connecting regional NSW with essential workers, trades, and services that they often depend on.”
FlyPelican operates five weekly BAe Jetstream 32 services on Sydney–Cobar, while Air Link flies Piper Chieftains from its main base in Dubbo.
Air Link is currently the only airline serving Bourke, Walgett and Lightning Ridge, with the same being true of FlyPelican in Cobar. Roy Butler, independent MP for Barwon, which covers most of the state’s far west, has labelled the services as “vital” for the region.
“Western Air Services flights provide people in remote areas with much-needed access to health services, social engagements, and major economic benefits to our primary industries,” he said.
“For many people in my electorate, these flights are not a luxury but an absolute necessity, especially given the vast distances people need to cover in the west of the state.”
Air Link general manager Ron O’Brien said the funding “plays a crucial role in maintaining reliable air services that are lifelines for the communities of Bourke, Walgett, and Lightning Ridge”.
“Regional air services help to bridge distances and improve quality of life for residents in regional NSW by facilitating economic development and enhanced connectivity for businesses and residents alike,” he said.
In a press release, the NSW government said it is also moving forward on delivering the Regional Development Trust’s $15 million Airstrips Improvement Package.
“The package will upgrade rural and remote airstrips to improve access for emergency services, health professionals and other essential services in some of the most remote parts of the state,” the government said.
“An audit of remote and rural airstrips across 19 local government areas and the unincorporated area in Western NSW is underway to prioritise those most in need of upgrades.
“Work on the airstrips and related infrastructure is expected to start before the end of the year.”
