Town of Port Hedland, Media Release, 6 September 2021

Council has endorsed a proposal from Aviair to provide financial support to continue operating four return weekly inter-regional flights from Port Hedland, connecting the port city with Karratha, Newman and Broome over the next five years.

Aviair are an inter-regional flight carrier currently servicing flights between the City of Karratha, Shire of East Pilbara, Town of Port Hedland and Broome using small, low capacity RPT capacity aircraft since August 2019.  

Mayor Peter Carter welcomed Council’s endorsement of the Aviair proposal as a sign that Hedland is open for business and supports industry progress.

“Port Hedland’s inclusion in the IRFN would not be able to remain in the route schedule without the Town’s financial support, impacting Port Hedland’s access to choice. We support local industry and the safety of residents, who can now fly instead of driving throughout the region.

“From a strategic perspective, increasing air travel options between Port Hedland, Broome, Karratha and Newman will have a positive impact on local businesses, job creation and will build Hedland’s regional reputation as a destination of choice.

“The IRFN increases supply in the regional airline market, aligning with the State Government’s agenda to establish mechanisms which put downward pressure on regional airfare costs. Aviair will continue to look at opportunities for new flight routes and larger aircraft types to service a higher volume of passengers in the future.”