Based in Dubbo since 1971, the airline has recently changed its ownership and aims to be back in the sky right away.

Formerly owned by well-known local businessman David Miller, the company was sold to Regional Express Airlines and operated for several years before last week’s sale to Aviation Logistics, which also operates the non-emergency aeromedical company AirMed.

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Ron O’Brien has been appointed as general manager and has relocated to Dubbo from Sydney. 

Mr O’Brien said he has an extensive operational background and is ready to get to work.

“I have over forty years working with both Hazelton Airlines and the Aviation Logistics Group and as a local business I am looking forward to re-establishing Air Link Airlines as the charter operator of choice,” he said. 

“Servicing the air charter needs of communities in New South Wales, more specifically Dubbo and Western NSW, we can offer private passenger charters, FIFO operations, freight options such as delivering vital mining parts, air tours for intrepid travel groups or perhaps a group flying to Sydney for a special sporting event or concert. 

“We will also offer closed charters to large corporate customers.”

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Dubbo mayor Ben Shields said the re-opening of Air Link Airlines further supports Dubbo’s role as an airport hub and the centre of Western NSW.

“The growth in the airport has been phenomenal, and the good thing with this announcement is that Dubbo will grow as a hub for smaller communities out west,” he said.

“This is just another business that sees the value of being in Dubbo, that sees our strategic importance to Western and Central NSW.

“We have to continue to look at encouraging business to base themselves in Dubbo; this can only be a good thing.”

Mr O’Brien said Air Link would be based at Dubbo Airport with its own office and lounge facilities.

“We will contribute to local employment by employing engineering and support staff, and will be looking to appoint additional flight crew in the coming weeks,” he said. 

“We own and maintain our own aircraft, supported by a talented team, and our mission is to serve Dubbo to the best of our ability.”