In a move that could point to the benefits of competition, passenger numbers from Merimbula Airport have increased during the last couple of years.
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The news, coupled increased tourism through cruise ship visitation, could prompt a watching brief from airlines other than those currently operating out of Merimbula, such as QantasLink and Virgin.
General manager at Bega Valley Shire Council Leanne Barnes, said the growth was a combination of increasing passenger numbers from Regional Express and Free Spirit.
“Over the last three years growth in passenger numbers has averaged 7 per cent, which is significantly higher than anticipated. This is particularly good news for the wider economy, as the airport provides economic stimulus, as well as a huge social benefit,” Ms Barnes said.
The news comes at an interesting time given Rex’s public spate with council over passenger landing fees which was then followed by a withdrawal of Rex’s offer of additional Merimbula to Melbourne flights. On Tuesday Rex announced profits for 2017 had quadrupled with a statutory profit before tax of $17.8 million on a turnover of $281 million.
Managing director of Free Spirit Roman Badov said demand had been steadily increasing and accordingly, “we look forward to increasing the frequency of our services in the near future”.
The airline has been operating scheduled flight services to Merimbula for two years and is close to clocking up 10,000 passengers. Free Spirit has a shuttle bus service, connecting Batemans Bay, Moruya, Narooma and Bega with Merimbula Airport.
“We have truly fallen in love with the region for all it has to offer and we are proud to offer what we know is a better travel option,” Mr Badov said.
Ms Barnes said that the airport was “technically, not self-funding, and unlikely to be until passenger numbers substantially rise”.
“However, as is the case with a great many services to our community, when viewed at a macroeconomic level, the benefit to the total economy far outstrips the subsidy. Socially the airport provides a vital link and is an essential service to our community also,” Ms Barnes said.
Council has agreed to maintain the current passenger tax, complete a business plan as part of the review of the 2013 Masterplan and to promote all air services to Merimbula Airport.
