Tasmania is set to receive a boost in air travel with the launch of a new $5 million Aviation Attraction Fund.
The fund aims to increase the number of domestic flights to and from the island and support the development of new international routes.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the investment will encourage the creation of new routes from domestic and international destinations or the extension of existing seasonal services.
“For Tasmanians, it will mean more choices when they travel interstate or overseas and support for our trade and export markets,” he said.
“This investment will drive visitation – boosting our local economy, supporting jobs and creating more opportunities for Tasmanians.”
Hobart Airport CEO Norris Carter said the fund would help unlock significant benefits for Tasmania.
“Aviation is a competitive business and these funds will give Tasmania a competitive edge to secure new and extra domestic and international flights,” Carter said.
“Importantly, this fund will go a long way to helping to secure direct international flights to Asia, once we complete our $130 million runway upgrade in the middle of this year.”
Launceston Airport CEO Shane O’Hare welcomed the announcement, saying it would allow the airport to engage with domestic airlines and attract more connections for passengers.
“The tourism industry brings billions of dollars into the state each year and supports tens of thousands of jobs … [and] we believe it is vital for Tasmania to compete with other states to attract aviation investment,” he said.
