Skippers Aviation to take over Broome-Derby air route March 1

23/2/99
Air services in the Kimberley will be given a boost when Skippers Aviation takes over the Broome-Derby route on Monday (March 1), Transport Minister Murray Criddle announced today.
Mr Criddle said Skippers Aviation would use a Metro 23 aircraft between Broome and Derby, offering a faster service with more passenger and freight capacity.
"Originally the service was operated by Skywest Airlines on behalf of Ansett,"
he said.
"Ansett will continue to host the reservation service and ticketing for Skippers.
"Over the years, Ansett has put a lot of work into developing the economy and tourism potential in this region."
Skippers Aviation has also won the Western Metals Kimberley air services contract, which will operate between Broome, Derby and Cadjebut.
Mr Criddle pointed out that the Western Metals contract required a primary aircraft and a back-up aircraft.
"The use of the back up aircraft on the Broome - Derby route is a win/win situation for all parties," he said.
"By sharing the resource, it provides for a more economic alternative for both the company and users of the service."

The Skippers Aviation service will operate to a similar schedule and fare structure as the previous service.
Derby West Kimberley Shire President Peter McCumstie said he was pleased with the introduction of the service into Derby.
"The fact that it is faster and has a larger capacity is important as we try to boost the numbers carried between Broome and Derby," Mr McCumstie commented.
"I am confident that the residents of Derby will find the new service a boon to the district, and with the number of existing or proposed projects in the region, it will provide an important link with jet services through Broome."
Media contact : Steve Manchee (08) 9213 6400