Return flights from Dubbo to three western NSW towns on both Mondays and Fridays are part of schedule changes that will provide more flexibility for travellers, the operator says.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Dubbo-based airline Air Link has made some changes to days of services to Bourke, Walgett and Lightning Ridge, as well as a revamp of airfares to deliver a "substantial decrease" in costs to its passengers.
It comes 12 months after it launched the first regular passenger flights to the three western ports in more than a decade, achieved through an agreement between the NSW government and the Far North West Joint Organisation (FNWJO).
The frequency of flights has not changed, but the new schedule will provide "additional flexibility" to the plans of travellers, Air Link general manager Ron O'Brien says.
Bourke, Walgett and Lightning Ridge gained returned services from Dubbo on Mondays and Fridays, a decision made after consulting with frequent flyers, he said.
- READ ALSO: Australian national anthem tweaked in 2021
"After several visits to the communities over the last 12 months it seemed we had not quite got the scheduling right from the communities' perspective," Mr O'Brien said.
"The generic message from community members and passengers travelling with us was the importance of services on Mondays and Fridays, both in bringing professional services to the communities but also providing opportunities for social and family reconnections. We believe our schedule adjustment will provide just that.
"Combined with a significant reduction in the airfares we are looking forward to a positive response and looking forward to welcoming many more passengers on our air service."
The prices of two fare types have been cut, while the $150 community fare remains on offer to residents of shires within the FNWJO.
In 2019 the NSW government stumped up $8 million to ensure the sustainability of the western NSW routes, which also includes a Cobar service operated by FlyPelican.