An additional fourth flight will be added to the Derby to Broome air service, providing more choice for travellers.
The new Monday flight will allow same-day return travel from Derby to Broome, or reverse, allowing Derby residents to access facilities or services in Broome and return later in the afternoon.
Additionally, the current schedule will be modified with Tuesday services rescheduled to Wednesday, allowing a better spread of flights throughout the week and providing residents more choice when to fly.
The new schedule will start from February 28, with airfares fixed at $119 one-way.
The trial Derby to Broome air service was launched in August 2021 after the McGowan Government entered into a deed of agreement with Aviair to provide the new service, following a public tender process.
The State Government subsidised service will initially operate for a 12-month trial period, enabling regular affordable flights for Derby residents until at least August 2022.
A review of the Derby to Broome services will be undertaken by mid-2022.
Work is underway to deliver the McGowan Government’s two-zone airfare cap from mid-year, which will see the cost of flights to and from Perth capped at $199 each way for regional Western Australians living within 1,000 kilometres of Perth and $299 for regional residents living further than 1,000km.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“I travelled on the very first flight between Broome and Derby in August last year, and saw firsthand how excited the community were with the new air service.
“Following community stakeholder feedback, we are trialling an additional fourth service on the route that will provide more options and flexibility for residents.
“The additional same-day flight means Derby residents can spend the day in Broome for business or appointments and return without having to spend the night in Broome.
“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:
“Affordable and accessible flights are important for Kimberley residents for many reasons.
“The direct Broome to Derby flight is already making it easier for residents to see family, get to important appointments or take up opportunities afforded to the rest of the State.
“This additional flight will mean even more choice and opportunities for residents.
“I’m so proud to be a part of the McGowan Government, which continues to deliver for regional WA.”
