Are two Dicks better than one? (New Avcharging)
Given the significant angst over the efficiencies allegedly introduced by NAS, the 2 Dicks may well get their way. Dick Smith wants the airspace to continue to roll-out and Dick Branson wants some pricing efficiency – rumour has it that the next phase post NAS2C will include revelations about the pricing restructure.
Current issues include dropping avgas levy altogether such that VFRs will pay only for the service they want, and flexible terminal charging such that users who require premium services pay for them. “No delays into Sydney – sure we can accommodate that.” – 5% premium over standard fees. Virgin would save significantly in peak fuel costs due holding reductions that would more than cover the 5% premium.
The sweetener for big Dick Airspace Reformer would be that the roadblocks being put in place by the heavy metal end of Australian aviation would magically disappear… Money rules.