Karratha residents snap up 1000 flights in first month of State Government capped regional airfare program

Karratha residents have jumped at their chance for relatively cheap airfares to Perth, with figures showing more than 1000 people booked capped price flights in the first month of the State Government program. The capped fare program, announced in April, introduced a $299 one-way cap for destinations more than 1000km driving distance from Perth from July 1. It means residents in the North West will be paying a maximum of $598 return, compared with a trip from Karratha to Perth on June 29 and returning on June 30 — a day before the capped prices come into effect — costing $1089. Regional destinations under that distance from Perth will have a $199 one-way cap. Since the program was launched, 4400 fares have been booked, 1000 of which came from Karratha. City of Karratha mayor Peter Long said it was a remarkable program. “I know people particularly in Karratha are really happy with it. I think it’s been 1000 people take advantage of it in this first month alone and I hope it continues,” he said. Speaking to the Pilbara News on June 30, Port Hedland International Airport chief executive Dave Batic said the fares gave price certainty to residents. “A $598 return airfare to Perth, that’s generally cheaper than current prices and also somewhat cheaper than the previous residential airfare scheme,” he said. Mr Batic said it would generate additional capacity and interest in travel. The program is a partnership between the State Government and Airnorth, Qantas, Regional Express, Skippers Aviation and Virgin.