Saturday, October 11, 2014

Why JetGo expects Gladstone route to work

They are twice as fast and a lot quieter than a turbo prop jet, and that's why the new Gladstone to Sydney service will work the second time around.

That's the reasoning of JetGo's decision, and confirmation yesterday, for a direct jet service that will begin on December 1.

JetGo managing director airlines Paul Bredereck was confident in the product.

"Jets cut the flying time by the best part of an hour," he said.

"They're quieter, faster, more comfortable and it's the right size for the market."

He and JetGo CEO Jason Ryder had been looking at Gladstone for two years and would have begun the program in the first half of 2015, but circumstances such as Qantas pulling its direct route spurred them to bring the timing forward.

"Gladstone was always on our list but never at the top of our list, Jason being from Yeppoon and me from Tamworth they were up top…but recent events and the support from the council meant it kept coming back to the top of the list."

Mr Bredereck said the idea was that people could do a full day's business in either city.

"The people from Delaware resorts got in contact with us and we adjusted our timetable by half an hour to allow for a better connection with the launch services to Heron Island, so there's been a lot of interaction with the business community," he said.

"We believe there's great support there, on our Facebook there's been over 3000 shares, and we're humbled by the community's support."

Gladstone Airport Corporation CEO Phillip Cash said it was great for Gladstone and the whole region.

"It offers everybody around here the direct flight from here straight to Sydney," he said.

Mayor Gail Sellers added, "plus those in Rockhampton, Banana Shire, and the Central Highlands".

Mr Cash said it was recognition of Gladstone being progressive, "and that we can offer a feeder for other people".

"Also, JetGo will obviously interface with other airlines so there'll be a straight through jet service," he said.

Graham Caven and his mates were waiting to fly back to Sydney yesterday via Brisbane.

"When we first looked at the trip I thought they flew direct but it turned out we had to go through Brisbane," he said.

He had further worries that the delayed flight he was waiting for would cause worries about the connecting flight.

The Canadian, who was in Gladstone for work, said it would be great to have the direct flight to Sydney back.

"That would be great," he said. "The time it takes to get there is a massive improvement.

"I know a lot of people who would use it."

Jamie and Tash Chinery, two of Gladstone's resident plane spotters, got an up-close look at the new 36-seat Embraer 135 regional jet.

"It's very good for Gladstone, it's what Gladstone does need," Mr Chinery said.

Story and Comments ►  http://www.gladstoneobserver.com.au

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