Karratha Welcomes National Push to Lower Regional Airfares Amid FIFO Family Pressure
A renewed national initiative aimed at driving down regional airfares has been warmly welcomed by the City of Karratha, with local leaders highlighting that the high cost of flying in and out of the Pilbara is placing significant pressure on families and workers.
Essential Air Travel for the Community
Karratha Mayor Daniel Scott emphasized that this collaborative effort comes at a critical juncture, coinciding with both a Productivity Commission inquiry into regional airfares and a Senate inquiry into the aviation sector currently underway.
"Affordable and reliable air travel is not a luxury for our community — it is essential," Mayor Scott stated, underscoring the vital role air connectivity plays in the region's daily life and economy.
Longstanding Concerns Over Flight Costs
The expense of flights between Karratha and Perth has long been a contentious issue for residents and fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) workers, who depend on air travel to maintain work schedules, access essential services, and stay connected with family members.
In response, the Western Australian Government's Regional Airfare Zone Cap scheme sets maximum one-way fares for eligible residents traveling to and from Perth. Depending on distance and demand, these capped fares range from under $200 to just under $400 per one-way trip.
Affordability Remains a Major Challenge
While the extension of the capped fares program has been appreciated, Mayor Scott pointed out that affordability continues to be a major concern for the community.
"Flying to and from Karratha remains too expensive, impacting livability, workforce attraction and connectivity," he explained.
He further noted that feedback from the annual community survey clearly indicated airfares are already prohibitively expensive for families wishing to travel to Perth. The recent increase in capped prices and ongoing high demand costs demonstrate that airfares are still exerting considerable pressure on residents.
Support for Federal Inquiries and International Airport Status
The City of Karratha plans to support submissions to both federal inquiries, arguing that the Pilbara's heavy reliance on air travel—particularly by the resource sector—makes aviation reform an urgent priority.
Additionally, Karratha is actively advocating for international status for its airport, contending that direct overseas connections would significantly enhance trade, investment, and workforce mobility in the region.
"There is a strong national economic case for international status at Karratha Airport," Mayor Scott asserted, highlighting the potential broader benefits.
Focus of Federal Inquiries
The federal inquiries are expected to thoroughly examine key issues such as competition within the aviation sector, pricing transparency, and the long-term sustainability of regional aviation services across Australia.
This renewed push aims to address systemic challenges and ensure that regional communities like Karratha have access to fair and affordable air travel options, supporting both economic growth and quality of life in remote areas.
