Virgin Australia Regional Airlines (VARA) has partnered with Perth Airport to support regional travel across Western Australia.
Part of Perth Airport’s plans to invest AU$80 million on projects to underpin the future growth of regional aviation within the Airport Central precinct, will include the construction of a new AU$35 million maintenance hangar for VARA and additional aviation support facilities.
Commenting on the growth in regional passenger movements over the past three years, Perth Airport Acting CEO, Kate Holsgrove, said: “This project is a key enabler for the future growth of T2 and the wider centralisation process and we are delighted to partner with VARA to support their growth in Western Australia.
“We are pleased VARA will support this new maintenance hangar and apron facility once it is built in September 2024.”
VARA Executive General Manager, Nathan Miller reinforced that Perth and the Western Australian region were an important part of the airline’s business.
“Our fleet renewal programme is well underway and will strengthen our resources and contract flying in Western Australia. The programme means larger, more fuel efficient 737-700 aircraft will join the fleet as we phase out our F100s.”
He also noted that the upgrade of facilities at Perth will enable more efficient and flexible operations. VARA has committed to an Agreement for Lease of the new maintenance hangar and apron facility, which will allow VARA to operate more efficiently by consolidating its warehouse, storage and engineering and maintenance office facilities in one location.
In addition to the hangar, Perth Airport is also developing the Aviation Support Precinct near T2.
“This area will be reserved for operations that require airside access and apron areas for aeronautical operations, including hangarage, ground support providers, flight catering and airfreight logistics,” said Holsgrove, suggesting this expansion provides another opportunity for airlines to grow their operations locally.
“Perth Airport’s vision to consolidate all commercial air services at Airport Central aligns with Master Planning dating back to the 1970s and we are excited to start the next stages of development.”
