Queensland's MacAir to bid for Long Term Regional Contract

Queensland's MacAir Airlines has confirmed its intention to tender for a major State Government contract to provide scheduled air transport services to 19 regional centres for a 10 year period, effective from March 2008.

MacAir, based in Townsville, has operated these services since 2001, after the previous operator collapsed, leaving many communities without flights or with diminished service.

"A reliable, stable and affordable air transport service is crucial for regional communities in Queensland, and we have provided this for five years," said Mr Randal McFarlane, Managing Director of MacAir Airlines.

"When the previous carrier serving these communities collapsed, it was MacAir which restored and maintained flights, invested in additional aircraft and provided direct employment for more than 200 Queenslanders," added Mr McFarlane.

"Having demonstrated this level of commitment, and having partnered with the State Government and local councils to improve airport infrastructure, we have proved our willingness and ability to deliver high quality air services to regional Queensland," he said.

"We now want to build upon what we have achieved to provide both continuity and certainty to these communities, and we will mount a vigorous campaign highlighting not just what we have delivered so far, but what we will continue to deliver."

Since commencing flights in regional Queensland, MacAir has increased its fleet of 36-seat SAAB 340B aircraft from two to six, introduced a 50-seat ATR 42-500 aircraft, increased capacity on the northern Gulf routes and between Townsville and Mt Isa.

The airline has also been very active in sponsoring or supporting community causes. It has flown a range of VIP groups to regional centres including members of the Australian cricket team as well as Rugby League players. MacAir is a keen supporter of organizations such as Angel Flight and Frontier Services by providing support to families in remote Queensland communities.

MacAir has also developed a strong partnership with Qantas. Through this relationship, destinations in the MacAir network are now listed in the Qantas reservations system, enabling travelers throughout the world to book flights to anywhere in the MacAir network. MacAir travelers can also receive and redeem Frequent Flyer points on all services.

Mr McFarlane said MacAir was prepared to provide scheduled services on all of the routes nominated by the State Government, that it currently operates, and not just to "cherry pick" the most profitable markets.

"This contract by the Government of Queensland seeks a stable, long term solution for regional Queensland, and I believe that MacAir is perfectly suited - proven - and committed - to this task."

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