Airlines keen on direct flights to Busselton-Margaret River Regional Airport

At least three airlines have shown “positive levels of interest” in direct flights to the stalled Busselton-Margaret River Regional Airport expansion, according to documents released under Freedom of Information laws.

With the future of the $60 million development on hold after it was not listed in the State Government’s two-year tourism plan, the documents include a briefing note for the Premier in May last year, which warned of political damage if the airport was shelved.

“There remain substantial savings for the Government should it not proceed, however, there will be a political and social fallout if ceased,” it read.

A month later, Tourism WA wrote to the City of Busselton with an update on the expansion’s progress. “The most recent meetings that the city and Tourism WA undertook in Sydney and Melbourne identified positive levels of interest by all three airlines met with,” the letter read. “While this does not denote a confirmation of flights or indicate what, if any, level of support may be required to secure the route, it does indicate a level of seriousness in their view.”

Earlier this year, Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan said a review of the project would be done before any commitment to build a $13 million terminal.

The Government was looking for concrete commitments to direct flights and awaiting a decision by Qantas, which has short-listed Busselton as the possible base for a new pilot training academy. Liberal MP for Vasse and shadow tourism minister Libby Mettam said the Government had “undermined” the airport plan and risked its viability.

“We are still yet to see a major airline commit to passenger services,” Ms MacTiernan said.