Derby residents will have three return flights per week to Broome from August 16, 2021 after the State Government entered into a deed of agreement with Aviair to provide the new service following a public tender process.
This new air service will enable Derby travellers to access essential services in Perth by connecting to Broome flights.
The State Government subsidised service will initially operate for a 12-month trial period, enabling regular, affordable flights for Derby residents. Seats on the nine-seat aircraft will be available at the fixed price of $119 each way.
The flight will depart Broome at 3pm on Mondays and Tuesdays and arrive in Derby at 3.55pm, with the return flight leaving Derby at 4.35pm to arrive in Broome at 5.30pm.
On Fridays, flights will be one hour earlier departing from Broome at 2pm and Derby at 3.35pm.
Passengers can travel with 23 kilograms of checked luggage. This is the same allowance as most other airlines, allowing passengers to easily transfer to and from connecting flights.
Tickets can be booked via Aviair's website at http://www.aviair.com.au
The State Government previously committed $1 million for a 12-month trial of direct flights between Perth and Derby at the 2017 State election. While a tender process was undertaken at the time, no tender submission represented a value-for-money option.
In 2020, the Shire of Derby-West Kimberley submitted a proposal to the State Government to re-allocate the funding to a Derby-Broome trial.
The McGowan Government is committed to providing affordable airfares for regional Western Australians.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"It's exciting times for Derby residents who deserve to have access to regular and affordable flights to Broome, which will allow them to connect to further flights to Perth and beyond.
"As the original Perth to Derby air service was found not to be viable, we've been working closely with the Shire of Derby-West Kimberley to find a suitable alternative.
"This 12-month trial will enable the Government to test the level of demand for this service.
"The McGowan Government is committed to increasing liveability in WA's regions and ensuring regular and affordable air services is an important element of this goal."
As stated by Kimberley MLA Divina D'Anna:
"Access to affordable and quality flights is essential for Kimberley residents.
"The flights will provide a quick connection for residents between Derby to Broome and will mean better access to flights to Perth - making it easier to see family, get to important appointments or take up opportunities afforded to the rest of the State.
"I'm so proud to be a part of the McGowan Government which continues to deliver for regional WA."
