To ensure that regional and major domestic routes across Australia remain available for those who want or need to travel by plane, the Australian federal government is giving further support to local carriers.

Through the Domestic Aviation Network Support (DANS) initiative and the Regional Airline Network Support (RANS) programme,  more than $150 million has already been handed to Australian airlines to cover any costs an airline cannot due to the lack of passengers.

While that support was due to end y, the Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack has confirmed the upcoming budget will mean these programmes are extended to 31 January, 2021 and 28 March, 2021 respectively.

Commenting on the extended support McCormack said: “Planes in the air mean jobs on the ground and, as part of our economic plan for a more secure and resilient Australia, we will continue to back our aviation sector.”

He added that regional air links are vital to local economies, “underpinning many small businesses including tourism operators, whilst ensuring continued access to key medical supplies and personnel.”

Agreeing that the ban on international tourism and local border closures has made life incredibly difficult for Australia’s travel and tourism sector, McCormack emphasised that, “Uncertainty affects the ability of airlines and airports to plan for recovery and undermines consumer confidence, which amounts to a significant cost to industry and ultimately the Australian economy.”

By underwriting regional and domestic flights the federal government is doing its bit to maintain connectivity. But, McCormack said, “Now we need the states and territories to do their bit too as we again encourage the continued easing of border restrictions.”

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