Avalon Airport chief executive Justin Giddings says the recently signed 10-year deal with Jetstar Airways provides great opportunities for the Wyndham region.
The long-term deal provides a minimum of five daily flights to Sydney, one daily flight to the Gold Coast, three weekly flights to Adelaide and four to Hobart.
Justin believes the agreement is also a fantastic boon for the airport and, with population growth in the Wyndham area soaring, it is only a matter of time until popular international destinations, such as Fiji, Bali, Vietnam and India are mainstays of Avalon’s flight destination listings.
Last year the Commonwealth Government reclassified Avalon Airport as a regional airport, removing barriers to entry to some international airlines.
“As a direct result of this change we have received interest from international airlines,” Justin explains.
“I would love to see international connections to New Zealand and Asia, not only because of strong passenger demand, but also for freight opportunities as well.”
Justin encourages Wyndham locals to use Avalon as their ‘local airport’.
SkyBus has just commenced a dedicated service, in line with the chief executive’s expansion plans.
“SkyBus now operates a direct service between Werribee and Avalon, which is scheduled to meet every flight,” Justin says.
“For locals, the pick-up point is out the front of the Werribee RSL, so passengers can go in and have a refreshment while they are waiting for their lift. They don’t have to worry about long-term parking or expensive cab fares – it’s Avalon made even easier, the way it should be.
“We have gone through massive growth and expansion over the past decade, leveraging off our location and we expect similar numbers this year.”
International air freight has also experienced strong growth, and last year was up by more than 45 per cent.
“Proximity to Victoria’s Werribee growers food bowl and to the fastest growing population pocket in the state also provides great opportunities for further expansion of freight,” Justin says.
“We processed more than 700,000 passengers last year and are very keen to become an international airport. We have great support from all levels of government and have made it our priority.”
Avalon Airport, 80 Beach Road, Lara. Inquiries: 5227 9100 or enquiries@avalonairport.com.au or www.avalonairport.com.au
