Regional airline Link Airways is scaling back services to Sydney, and increasing Brisbane services, in the New England.
The carrier has announced it will suspend services from Sydney to Inverell and Narrabri as of 1 March 2025, citing “reduced demand”, while ramping up flights to Armidale and Tamworth.
“We will continue to monitor the market closely and look to return to Sydney when demand recovers,” the airline said in a statement.
“Customers on affected Sydney flights will be contacted and offered a full refund or a re-booking on alternative flights to Brisbane. Customers can continue to travel to Brisbane four days a week with Link Airways.”
“Link Airways would like to thank the Inverell and Narrabri communities, and Councils, for their ongoing support since Link Airways commenced flights at both locations in 2017.”
Link will boost Brisbane services to six flights per week at Armidale and 10 per week at Tamworth.
Local reaction
Inverell Shire Mayor, Cr Kate Dight has assured residents that Council shares in the community’s disappointment regarding Link Airways decision to suspend flights from March.
“Council understands that the current flight schedule from Inverell to Sydney has not been convenient for many travellers, leading some to opt for alternative airports. Additionally, Link Airways has faced constraints due to limited air slots at Sydney Airport, making it challenging to adjust scheduling to better suit passenger needs.” said Dight.
“From the outset, Council has strongly supported Link Airways, including waiving landing fees to assist in maintaining this service. Despite this setback, Council will continue to work closely with Link Airways and any other interested operators to explore viable options for re-establishing commercial passenger flights to Sydney in the future.”
Council has already been in contact with local state member Mr Brendan Moylan and local federal member Mr Barnaby Joyce, seeking their assistance in facilitating sustainable services into the future.
“Access to a regular flight service to Sydney is important to the future prosperity of our Shire.” Said Dight.
“While this is unfortunate news for our residents and businesses who rely on this service, we acknowledge that this decision is based on the economic viability of the route. We encourage the community to continue supporting regional flight services, as demand is a key factor in ensuring their long-term viability. Council remains committed to advocating for improved air services for our shire and will keep the community informed of any developments.”
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