Kalumburu community receives regular air services

Regular flights have started to Kalumburu in remote northern WA, after Aviair commenced air services from Kununurra.

Aviair commenced Regular Public Transport (RPT) air services on the Kununurra to Kalumburu air route late July 2017 after extensive engagement with the Kalumburu Aboriginal Corporation and consultation with the Department of Transport and Department of Communities.

The new schedule provides four return RPT flights a week, allowing regular travel opportunities for community members, visitors and service providers alike to get to and from Kalumburu.

Government agencies are required to use RPT services, where possible, to help reduce travel costs consistent with the Premier's Circular on this matter.

Comments attributed to Acting Managing Director, Policy Planning and Investment, Department of Transport, Steve Beyer:

"The addition of RPT operations by Aviair on the Kalumburu - Kununurra route gives the community and visiting agencies, health professionals, contractors, family and tourists, more choice and flexibility in air travel and pricing.

"The new air services will greatly benefit the local communities as road access to the Kalumburu community is particularly difficult in the wet season when it can be cut off.

"The flights are a positive outcome for all those living in Kalumburu as well as the State overall. This is an example of the airline industry listening to the needs of the community and identifying an innovative solution.

"It is great to see airlines like Aviair taking leadership and commercial risks to provide services on unsubsidised air routes like Kalumburu."

Comments attributed to Acting Director General, Department of Communities, Grahame Searle:

"Providing regular weekly flights to Kalumburu will offer a transport link for community members and service providers to get to and from one of the State's most remote communities.

"This transport link is an example of my team driving meaningful collaboration between the government, service providers and Aboriginal people, which underpins regional services reform and is essential for significant, long-term change.

"This new RPT service is a valuable step towards improving living conditions and access to services for Aboriginal people living remotely."

Media contact: Department of Transport - Coby Lucas 0477 753 144