Sharp Airlines says it is working on a plan to keep King Island connected after rival Rex announced it would axe its Burnie service.
Rex recently confirmed it would scrap flights between King Island and Burnie from June 20, blaming soaring fuel prices and a tough operating environment.
The decision has raised concerns for the King Island community, local businesses and the island’s tourism sector.
Sharp Airlines, which already flies the Burnie-King Island route, said it was looking at how to respond.
“Sharp Airlines is actively working with key stakeholders regarding future capacity requirements and longer-term connectivity needs for the island, including how best to address the capacity previously provided by Rex on the Burnie route,” the airline said.
Sharp said it was “too early” to give specifics but was reviewing its options.
“Sharp Airlines is reviewing a range of options to ensure future arrangements support both community needs and a more sustainable operating environment,” the airline said.
The airline acknowledged that locals and businesses need certainty, especially with forward bookings driving travel demand.
King Island leans heavily on reliable air links during peak periods, when tourism, golf travel, business trips and freight all support the local economy.
Sharp has served the island for years and recently cut its own Melbourne (Essendon) to King Island service after 11 years.
Rex, meanwhile, is restructuring its wider network.
It will up Melbourne-Burnie to 18 direct return flights a week and run seven direct services between Melbourne and King Island.
Sharp said it expected to update the community as talks continue.
“Sharp Airlines remains committed to working collaboratively and constructively with all parties to support the long-term connectivity needs of King Island,” the airline said.
Sharp operates 23 Metroliner turboprops across five states, carrying more than 100,000 passengers a year.
