Cairns - Horn Island

[bizzybody]

Just recieved an email from the QLD Transport dept inviting operators to provide a range of RPT services all over QLD.

Interesting one to note was the Cairns to Horn Island. Are Qantas not doing it anymore?

Bizz

[kam16]

It is up for review is it not? The run is government subsidised.
That is why we had an EMB170 doing a run up to Horn recently for a local operator in Cairns.

[nick charles]

It appears that QF Link may be in for some real competition.

[Torres]

Cairns - Horn Island is a "closed" air route, subject to State licensing.

Both western Queensland subsidised air routes and the non subsidised closed air routes are up for tender with Queensland Transport.

Nick. The tender process may be competitive but it is highly unlikely there will ever be competition over the air routes.

[don-one]

I can't really see the link having any competion on this route despite aerotropics attempt to service it with the E-jet.
Think about what qantas can offer:
1. the 400 for starters will reduce the flight time to 1hour 20 mins making it only approximately 20 mins slower than the jet.
2. The back up of many additional aircraft available in the event of breakdowns etc.
3. the frequent flyer points, lounges and most of all the connections to main line qantas flights.
Could go on here but i won't.
Im not too sure about what tropos are offering and it is great to see them having a go...... but from where i am sitting it is hard to see them really competing with the rat on this one.

[Torres]

I can't see any reason for change on Cairns - Horn Island or Cairns - Weipa, both of which are regulated but unsubsidised air routes. The sector lengths, route passenger density and desirable frequency indicates a 40 to 55 seat fast turboprop aircraft.

Unless an operator comes up with a new, very innovative approach and lower subsidy, I doubt the western Queensland subsidised air routes will experience a change of operator. However, there is considerable room for an innovative approach in the west, which may see more rurals towns able to access air services........ :E