Bassair was started in the late '69 or early '70 by Stan Smith, a farmer and butcher on King Island. Initially operated a C172, a C210, then a C336 (ex-STOL, PNG), C310 and Beech Twin Bonanzas (ex-Connellans, ASP). Had an ex-NTMS Dove for a while which proved to be a huge financial drain.
Main operation was charter for the KI locals but they also did runs to YMMB to deliver crays to the Melbourne market as well as abalone destined for Asian markets. Return trips took fresh fruit and veges back to YMKI - shipping was not a real option for fresh produce.
Bassair ran to the late 70's or early 80's to the best of my recollection.
Last edited by witwiw; 11th Jul 2012 at 00:29.
Reason: some more detail