The launch of Ozjet’s Perth-Derby service last month is another example of the resource industry working with local authorities to introduce passenger service to Western Australian country towns.
The launch of Ozjet’s Perth-Derby service last month is another example of the resource industry working with local authorities to introduce passenger service to Western Australian country towns.
The service started on February 27 with Australian football legend Ron Barassi heading to Derby to hold a series of football clinics.
According to Ozjet state manager Richard George, the service is the start of a major push into WA, with the airline to have eight 106-seat Boeing 737s in Australia by the end of the year.
The Perth-Derby service supports three regional mining companies, and OzJet CEO Willie O’Neill said all parties had worked hard to establish a sustainable air route for business and private travellers.
“The process has been very involved and we are delighted to be able to provide return air services to Derby after a 12-year absence. The Shire Derby West Kimberley has been a great support and we look forward to a long and fruitful association,” he told Business Class.
Mr George added that Ozjet’s fares were structured “to appeal to the corporate and leisure traveller”.
“A one-way adult fare starts at $295 including taxes, with children’s fares at 50 per cent of applicable adult base fare plus taxes.”
And a bonus for families, the airline has extended the age limit for children from the usual 12 years to 17 years.
Benefits to Derby are expected to be significant, with inbound tourism operators confident of increased business coming from tourists who will use Derby as a gateway to the Kimberley’s stunning natural attractions.
The service operates from Perth on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays departing at 5.30am and arriving at the Curtin Airbase near Derby at 8.10am. Flights depart Derby at 11.10am and arrive back in Perth at 2pm.
Mr George is working to attract additional resource industry business for the airline and believes the spacious 106-seat interior of the 737 will be a winner.
“We believe that clients who may be currently using a 65-seat BAe146 will welcome the extra room of the 737 at comparable prices,” Mr George said.
Ozjet has chartered its 737s to the Australian government, as well as visiting international entertainment shows U2, Pearl Jam and Robbie Williams.
OzJet Airlines was established in 2005 and its fleet of 737s is configured for both VIP and premium economy configurations.
The airline launched a bold business class only airline product late in 2005 on the eastern seaboard but was forced to withdraw services in March this year because of a lack of public support.
At the time, OzJet chairman Mr Paul Stoddart said it was with very great regret that the decision had been made.
