Masterton-Auckland flights may return

ON TRACK: Vincent Aviation's Saab 340, touted as the type of aircraft to do the job for Masterton.

A group of passionate Wairarapa business owners is hoping to re- establish a Masterton to Auckland air service after Air New Zealand withdrew its services earlier this month.

The group, made up of key business leaders across the region, wants to reinstate a commercially viable air service between Masterton and Auckland.

Spokesmen Dave Borman and Colin Oldfield said the group has commissioned an independent feasibility study on the proposed new air link which is due for completion next month. The study will take into account scheduling, flfiight costs and the potential economic impact for the region.

In addition the group is proposing a partnership with Vincent Aviation, a New Zealand-owned airline company based out of Wellington and Darwin in Australia.

They are looking into the benefits of utilising Vincent Aviation's Saab 340 aircraft, which seats 34 passengers, one cabin crew and 2 pilots.

The proposed flight would take one hour and 10 mins to fly between Masterton and Auckland airports, and the aircraft would also be available for charter flights. Mr Borman says the aircraft is being sourced for its comfort, capacity and ability to work within confines of current infrastructure.

"After looking at several aircraft, the Saab 340 is our preferred option because of its capacity, its ability to use the existing runway and the current infrastructure at Masterton's Hood Aerodrome," he said.

"We are also excited about working with Vincent Aviation, who has a proven track record and is just as committed to making this air link as successful as we are."

The group believes the re-establishment of the Auckland to Masterton air route can only benefit the region long term.

"With the right pricing, the right scheduling and support from the community we believe it will improve business links between Auckland and Wairarapa and offer tourists and visitors a convenient travel option to the region," said Mr Borman.

"With the option of offering the flight for charter services we feel there will be additional benefits."

Mr Borman and Mr Oldfield said the group driving the new initiative had evolved from the Masterton Airport Steering Committee. The pair said after weeks of talking, this new group felt it was "time to take action".

They are now calling for public feedback on the proposed air service.

"We want to know, what do people want?

"We are very keen to gauge public opinion and invite anyone to get in touch with their ideas or feedback," said Mr Oldfield.

The pair suggests members of the public can contact them (david@venturecon.co.nz) with any ideas or feedback on how the new service may operate.