An air route between Dubbo and Ballina has been extended again until at least June after a successful trial in the past six months, Dubbo Regional Council and FlyPelican have announced.
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There had been a significant increase in visitation to the Dubbo region and research showed there was $1.3 million worth of positive economic activity in the region as a result of the trial period, the council reports.
And demand was at levels to give confidence to continue offering the service on a more permanent basis, the boss of the airline said.
Dubbo Regional Council, Ballina Shire Council and FlyPelican collaborated to launch the trial route in August for an initial three months as COVID-19 prompted the closure of the NSW-Queensland border and a growing domestic tourism trend.
Dubbo mayor Ben Shields welcomed the second and latest extension, saying it demonstrated the subsidy model had merit.
The council had been able to waive passenger fees until August 2021, which was in line with its revenue policy to provide the waiver for a full year, Cr Shields said.
"This allows the airline to investigate whether the route is a viable option, and if they would like to continue offering it," he said.
The frequency of flights between the two popular destinations has also increased, with three direct flights, and two via Newcastle operating each week.
The prices will remain the same, starting at $149 one-way, flying out on Thursday and returning Sunday, so people can extend the weekend, the council reports.
"This trial has been so successful, we're pleased to continue working with FlyPelican to investigate even more flight options, so that we can welcome even more people to the Dubbo region," Cr Shields said.
"This flight route has been supported by a robust marketing campaign, aimed at bringing more people from the Northern Rivers region to the Dubbo region for a holiday, and it paid off."
The partners also reported the service had created six full-time equivalent jobs, and a knock-on supply chain effect of $306,000.
Load factors - or occupancy - had consistently been above 70 per cent throughout the trial period, a council spokeswoman said.
FlyPelican chief executive officer Marty Hawley says he's looking forward to continuing work with Dubbo Regional Council and Dubbo City Regional Airport to reinvigorate regional travel routes.
"By keeping the flight prices at around the $150 mark, even more people are able to afford a seat on the plane," he said.
"Our load factors throughout the trial have been incredibly pleasing, and we're now confident that we can continue offering this service on a more permanent basis.
"If the people want it, they'll get it, and they're certainly [showing] us that there is demand for the direct route to the Northern Rivers," Mr Hawley said.
From April 6, flights will operate every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday.
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