Council backs push to promote airline

Air Link Pilots Mark Wardrop, Matt Williams and Jesse Moll pictured at the Bourke Airport. Photo TWH

Bourke Shire Council GM Mark Riley says that Air Link has to get its message out. Photo TWH

Concerns about the future of air services to Bourke have raised questions about whether the flight schedule and ticketing costs should be changed.

General Manager of Bourke Shire Council Mark Riley has defended the flight timetable, saying it offers the most time-effective way for people to get from Sydney and Dubbo to Bourke, particularly for work.

The suggestion of a ‘milk run’ style timetable, linking Bourke with Walgett and Moree, would not alleviate the low patronage, Mr Riley said.

“I was involved with the Far West Joint Organisation at the time and worked on the air service proposal when the “milk run” option was considered by the board,” Mr Riley said.

“We looked at a “milk-run” style timetable, but the aim is to get people to their destination as quickly as possible, in an hour’s time, not adding another hour or more by going around the countryside.

“In hindsight, the big issue was the level of air fares being initially too high and then the COVID pandemic hit.

“The air fares have now been reduced so if you have the 2840 postcode on your license you can fly from Bourke to Dubbo for $150, which is a great price.

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