From July, regional travellers through Western Australia will be able to hop aboard flights from new airline Nexus.
The launch of Nexus comes from Kununurra-based aviation company Aviair – who have been operating charter flights, scenic and helicopter tours regionally for over 38 years.
The new airline will operate out of two regional bases in Geraldton and Broome, connecting the Kimberley, Pilbara and Mid-West, alongside new services that connect Geraldton to Perth, as well as Broome to Kununurra and onto Darwin.
Operating through the WA State government supported Inter Regional Flight Network, the extension of the network to Geraldton was achieved with a $4.05 million injection from the state government, and a similar combined contribution from local governments City of Greater Geraldton, City of Karratha, Town of Port Hedland, and the Shire of Broome.
Nexus will operate a fleet of five De Havilland aircraft specifically chosen for their suitability in hot and humid conditions, as well as significant fuel and carbon emission savings compared to other jet aircraft of a similar size.
“The launch of Nexus Airlines will mean bigger planes, more routes, better services and cheaper airfares for regional Western Australians,” said Transport Minister Rita Saffioti.
“The network expansion will mean for the first time in our State’s regional aviation history, people will be able to fly directly between Karratha and Geraldton. This will be a game-changer, linking Geraldton businesses and workers to the State’s booming mining industry in the Pilbara.
“Customers using the Nexus Airlines Geraldton-Perth route will also have access to our Regional Airfare Zone Cap Scheme, which is making air travel more affordable than ever before for regional residents.”
“The HMC Group currently employs a team of more than 300 staff with the vast majority living and working in regional Western Australia,” added Michael McConachym Managing Director of parent company HMC Group.
“We have a proud history of supporting and contributing to regional communities and we understand that reliable and regular air connectivity is a key economic driver and is fundamentally important in attracting and retaining people.”
“I’m confident that Nexus Airlines will enhance the livability of our regional towns and will boost our regional economies.”
Flying from July 10, Nexus Airline fares are on sale from today.