Proposed Security Upgrades Threaten Burnie Airport Services
Proposed security upgrades at Burnie Airport could lead to airlines ceasing services, according to the Burnie Airport Corporation.
The Department of Home Affairs has advised that Burnie Airport meets the threshold for reclassification from a Tier 3 to a Tier 2 airport. This change would mandate aviation security screening, a significant shift for the regional facility.
Steep Cost Implications for Operations
The corporation estimates that implementing the required security screening would incur substantial costs. Capital works are projected to be $24–29 million, with ongoing operating costs expected to be approximately $2.5 million annually.
This financial burden represents a threefold increase in the airport's operating overheads. Without immediate grant funding for capital works, Qantas would be required to halt operations at Burnie Airport.
Even if initial funding is secured, the ongoing costs could significantly impact passengers. The airport warns these expenses could necessitate an additional $170 per airfare for passengers on the QantasLink service to Melbourne, a factor that could potentially force QantasLink to cease its services. Furthermore, if Rex and Sharp Airlines were mandated to contribute to these new security costs, they might also withdraw from the airport.
Terminal Suitability and Widespread Industry Concerns
Burnie Airport Corporation chief executive Tyler Wilson has highlighted a key structural challenge, stating the current terminal is not suitable for security screening and would require significant upgrades.
Director Rod Sullivan expressed broader concerns, indicating that the added security costs could deter growth and pressure existing services. This issue isn't isolated to Burnie; several other regional aerodromes, including Griffith, Mount Gambier, Albany, Broken Hill, and Merimbula, are reportedly facing similar security category changes.
Funding Solutions and Government Perspective
Mr. Sullivan has proposed a potential national funding solution: a uniform national levy on airfares to cover security upgrade costs. He suggested a $10 levy on 160 million national passengers could generate $1.6 billion.
Infrastructure and Transport Minister Kerry Vincent acknowledged the precarious situation, describing regional aviation in Tasmania as "very fragile." He noted that many routes are only marginally viable due to high costs and the limited ability for airlines and airports to absorb rising regulatory expenses.
The Home Affairs Department, however, clarified its position. Airports are categorized based on factors such as risk, passenger numbers, and plane seating capacity. The department reiterated that airlines and airports are responsible for delivering aviation security and managing associated costs.