Aviair granted 12-month extension for Broome to Derby flights amid soaring demand

Aviair has been granted a 12-month extension by the State Government to operate subsidised regular public transport services between Broome and Derby.

The extension comes as a tender process is initiated.

Since August 2021, Aviair has been providing three weekly return services on this route through an agreement with the State Government.

Responding to feedback and aiming to boost passenger demand, a fourth same-day return service was introduced in February 2022.

In response to increased demand during historic flooding in the region earlier this year, the government temporarily ramped up services to as many as 35 per week.

These additional services were crucial for transporting more than 3400 passengers in just over a month. Apart from serving the community, the services played a pivotal role in aiding emergency services and recovery efforts.

The surge in demand following the flood has led to Aviair maintaining four weekly return services throughout the 12-month extension period, continuing until June 2024.

Looking ahead, a competitive tender process is set to commence later this year.

The process aims to award exclusive rights for operating RPT air services on this route for a two-year duration, extending until June 2026.