Mayor hails positive talks with airlines and fare deals

Mayor Jack Dempsey has welcomed downward pressure on airfares from Bundaberg to Brisbane following talks with Qantas and Alliance Airlines.

Writing on his website, Mayor Dempsey said that in December he became concerned about the high cost of airfares.

“Feedback from local people and research showed that flights were often more expensive than those from Brisbane to Gladstone, Mackay and Rockhampton,” Mayor Dempsey said.

“As a result of this, I requested meetings with representatives of Alliance Airlines and Qantas.

“I was also interested to discuss with them the possibility of additional services.

“I've now held constructive meetings with both airlines and I'm really pleased with their ongoing commitment to the Bundaberg Region.”

Both airlines have been offering discount fares since the Mayor's public comments in December, with Qantas currently selling $99 one-way tickets in a sale that ends on February 11.

We need to support the airlines

“Aviation is the type of industry that really depends on usage to remain viable,” Mayor Dempsey said.

“If we want a good service from Bundaberg to Brisbane we need to support the operators. The more bums we get on seats the better.

“There was publicity last year when Qantas reduced their flights by one a day, but not many people realise that's now been reinstated.

“Bundaberg is one of the few regional airports in Australia where Qantas flies five times a day (Monday), four times (Tuesday to Saturday) and three times on Sunday.”

Mayor Dempsey said the busy schedule meant residents have greater flexibility over when to travel.

“I'll continue to maintain a dialogue with both airlines about maximising their services, keeping a lid on prices and potentially expanding in the future,” he said.