Perth Airport gets 'satisfactory' rating

Perth Airport was given an overall ‘satisfactory’ quality of service rating by the competition watchdog, while passengers rated the airport's service quality as ‘good’.

The airport had the lowest passenger growth out of the four major Australian airports monitored by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, and recorded its first drop in domestic passenger numbers in over a decade.

In a statement, the airport said the slow in growth to 1.5 per cent and the 1.2 per cent domestic passenger count was largely due to the slowing in the resources sector and a weaker overall economy.

“Even though we are seeing a substantial slowing in passenger numbers and aircraft movements we are continuing our investments, with a further $150 million of projects commencing this year,” Perth Airport chief executive Brad Geatches said.

“The ACCC reports that in 2013-14 Perth Airport had completed, and had underway, $519 million in capital projects to improve customer service and provide future capacity.”

ACCC’s report also found that the cost for international airlines to operate their aircraft at Perth Airport was the second lowest in the country, and 35 per cent lower than Sydney and Brisbane airports.

“International tourism is a very competitive market. By keeping our airport costs low for international airlines Perth Airport is contributing to our international tourism competitiveness,” Mr Geatches said.