Launceston Airport records strongest first quarter passenger growth on record

The Sydney-Launceston route proved to be popular recording the strongest load factors for the quarter, followed by Melbourne.

In October, Launceston Airport was also named finalist in the 2018 Tasmanian Tourism Awards for a fourth time, reinforcing the airport’s position as a key tourism gateway.

Launceston Airport General Manager Paul Hodgen said he was encouraged by the recent passenger growth and proud of the airport’s reputation as a tourism leader.

“Our buoyant first quarter figures are pleasing, particularly against a background of continued constrained domestic aircraft capacity,” said Mr Hodgen.

“We clearly have strong demand for travel in and out of Launceston, with the Sydney route performing remarkably well. During the first quarter, load factors on Launceston-Sydney services averaged 87 per cent, highlighting the potential for additional services in the future.

“As Tasmania’s tourism appeal continues to rise we expect visitation to increase as well.
“In Launceston, we continue to experience strong demand across all of our routes and with competitive commercial arrangements in place with our airlines, we are confident that more aircraft capacity will be deployed to Launceston, the tourism gateway to Tasmania.”

Mr Hodgen said he has his fingers crossed for the Tasmanian Tourism Awards particularly as the state award winners from around the country will be hosted at the Qantas National Tourism Awards’ event taking place in Cataract Gorge, Launceston on 1 March 2019.
“It is great to be recognised for our efforts in showcasing uniquely northern Tasmanian hospitality and retail offerings and we look forward to being part of the Awards,” said Mr Hodgen.

“Launceston Airport facilitates travel for almost 1.4 million people annually and we take great pride in incorporating the best elements of our city and region at the airport.”