Route takes flight

The Newman Government has cleared the skies for airlines to run direct flights between Toowoomba and Roma.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said lobbying by South West Queensland local members and councils led to an investigation into whether the air route between Toowoomba and Roma was regulated.

“The legal advice I received confirmed that airlines interested in operating on the proposed route will not require a government service contract,” Mr Emerson said.

“Opening up this route provides alternatives for anyone wanting to travel to and from Toowoomba and the rapidly developing Roma area.

The Queensland Government regulates ten air services in the state, including annual subsidies totalling $8.7 million for five of the regulated routes.

Member for Warrego Howard Hobbs welcomed the move to allow commercial airlines to operate from Roma to Toowoomba.

“The Roma area and its resources and industry will become an increasingly important part of the Queensland economy,” Mr Hobbs said.

“There are already airlines operating between Sydney and Toowoomba, and now there is the opportunity to connect to Roma.

“As our region grows, we will ensure that we are clearing red tape by allowing transport operators to service the region.”

Mr Emerson said the Newman Government was committed to delivering better outcomes for regional Queensland by improving regional services, including a review of all government subsidised and/or regulated long distance air, rail and coach services in regional Queensland.

For further details on regional air services visit the qconnect website, www.qconnect.qld.gov.au

[ENDS] 1 March 2013

Media contact: Eleisha Rogers 0413 375 088