Aviair

Aviair (GD) is a premier regional airline serving the vast and rugged landscapes of Western Australia. Established in 1984, the carrier has built a strong reputation for connecting remote communities, mining hubs, and tourist destinations across the spectacular Kimberley and Pilbara regions. With its primary base in Broome, Aviair plays a vital role in the state's aviation network, offering a mix of scheduled passenger services, corporate charters, and award-winning scenic flights. Known for its reliability and expertise in operating within remote environments, the airline provides an essential link for both local residents and international visitors exploring the Australian outback.

Regional Connectivity and Specialized Fleet
Aviair specializes in short-haul flights designed to bridge the vast distances of Western Australia. The airline operates a versatile fleet of robust turboprop aircraft, including the Cessna 208 Grand Caravan and the Pilatus PC-12, which are perfectly suited for landing on the rugged airstrips of regional towns and stations. This specialized fleet ensures consistent access to destinations that larger jets cannot reach, making Aviair a lifeline for the region.

Key Routes and Network
For travelers navigating the north-west of Australia, Aviair offers convenient scheduled connections between key regional centers. The airline operates frequent services connecting Broome with the historic town of Fitzroy Crossing, facilitating travel into the heart of the Kimberley. Additionally, Aviair serves the industrial and mining sectors with flights between Port Hedland and Newman, supporting the economic engine of the Pilbara region.

Commitment to Safety and Tourism
Beyond essential transport, Aviair is celebrated for its tourism operations, offering breathtaking scenic flights over landmarks such as the Bungle Bungle Range. The company prides itself on high safety standards, holding ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems certification. Whether for a scenic adventure or a business commute, passengers can expect a professional service focused on safety, comfort, and the unique hospitality of Western Australia.

As Aviair is a regional Australian carrier specializing in travel within Western Australia, it does not currently maintain specific local offices or dedicated customer support lines within the United Arab Emirates. Travelers from the UAE who need to manage bookings, request charter services, or seek assistance should contact the airline's headquarters in Australia directly using the international details provided below.

Key Contact Details

• Official Website: www.aviair.com.au
• Customer Service (International): +61 8 9166 9300 (Head Office)
• Broome Terminal Enquiries: +61 8 9192 3360
• Email Enquiries: bookings@aviair.com.au
• Charters & Special Requests: charters@aviair.com.au

Social Media Channels

You can also follow Aviair for updates, scenic flight inspiration, and operational news through their official social media platforms:

• Facebook: Aviair
• Instagram: @aviair_wa
• LinkedIn: Aviair

Office Locations

Please note that there are no physical ticketing offices in the United Arab Emirates. All in-person inquiries must be handled at the airline's Australian terminals.

• Head Office (Kununurra):
  Lot 319 Laine Jones Drive, Kununurra Airport
• Broome Departure Terminal:
  9 Gus Winckel Drive, Broome, Western Australia 6725

Support Availability

The reservation team generally operates during Australian Western Standard Time (AWST). Travelers calling from the UAE should be mindful of the time difference (AWST is typically 4 hours ahead of UAE time) and international calling charges.

Preparing for your journey with Aviair requires a slightly different approach compared to flying with large international carriers. Since Aviair primarily operates a fleet of light aircraft, such as the Cessna Grand Caravan, weight and balance are critical safety factors. Consequently, baggage allowances are generally stricter than what you might expect on larger jets, and adhering to these policies ensures a smooth departure from hubs like Broome.

Regarding carry-on baggage, space inside the cabin is very limited. Passengers are typically allowed to bring small personal items, such as a handbag, a small camera bag, or a tablet, which must be held on your lap during the flight. Large rolling suitcases or bulky backpacks cannot be stowed in the cabin and must be checked in. It is advisable to keep your carry-on weight to a minimum to comply with safety regulations.

For checked baggage, the allowance often depends on your specific ticket class and route, but the standard limit is generally around 15 kg per passenger. Due to the cargo hold dimensions of smaller aircraft, Aviair strongly recommends using soft-sided bags (like duffel bags or sports bags) rather than rigid, hard-shell suitcases. Soft bags are much easier to stow efficiently in the aircraft's luggage compartments.

If you plan to travel with more than the allocated limit, be aware that excess baggage is subject to additional fees and is carried strictly on a space-available basis. In some cases, if the aircraft reaches its maximum payload, excess luggage may need to be transported on a subsequent flight. It is always best to pre-purchase extra weight allowance if available or travel light to avoid potential delays with your belongings.

Travelers wishing to transport special items, such as musical instruments or sports equipment, must make arrangements with the airline in advance. Due to the compact size of the aircraft, large items like surfboards or cellos may not fit or may require purchasing an extra seat or freight options. Always contact customer service prior to your flight to confirm if your specific item can be accommodated.

Strict safety rules apply to restricted and prohibited items. As with all air travel, dangerous goods such as flammable liquids, explosives, and compressed gases are forbidden. Lithium batteries and electronic devices should generally be carried with you in the cabin (or in your personal item) rather than in checked luggage, subject to current safety regulations. Ensure you review the full list of prohibited items before packing.

To ensure a hassle-free experience, here are a few packing tips for your Aviair flight: prioritize lightweight clothing suitable for the warm climate, weigh your bags before arriving at the airport, and pack essential medication and travel documents in your small personal carry-on. Using soft luggage not only helps you stay within the limits but also ensures your gear is handled easily by the ground crew.

Pet Travel Policy

Aviair maintains specific policies regarding animal transport to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers on its regional network. Travelers should be aware that, generally, pets are not permitted on scheduled Regular Public Transport (RPT) flights, neither in the passenger cabin nor as checked baggage.

Assistance Dogs

Exceptions are made exclusively for Accredited Assistance and Service Dogs. These animals are permitted to travel with their handlers, subject to the following requirements:

• Accreditation: The dog must be a recognized service animal, and the handler must provide valid accreditation documentation or an identity card.
• Restraint: The animal must wear a standard identifying harness or vest appropriate for service dogs.
• Advance Notice: Passengers must notify the airline at the time of booking that they will be traveling with an assistance dog to ensure space is reserved and safety procedures are followed.

Freight Inquiries

Since pets cannot be carried on standard scheduled passenger flights, those wishing to transport animals may need to explore alternative arrangements. Aviair operates freight services that operate under different guidelines. For any inquiries regarding the possibility of transporting animals as freight, or to check if specific charter options are available, please contact the airline directly to discuss your requirements.

Important: All animal transport requests are subject to operational approval. Always confirm the latest regulations with Aviair before arriving at the airport.

Introduction

Unlike traditional frequent flyer schemes that reward individual travelers with miles, Aviair (GD) operates a unique community-focused initiative called AviairGO. Recognizing that frequent flyer points often go unused by individuals in remote regions, the airline designed this program to channel the benefits of loyalty back into the towns and settlements it serves. Through AviairGO, every flight booking helps generate tangible support for local organizations, sports clubs, and community events across the Kimberley and Pilbara regions.

Membership Tiers

AviairGO differentiates itself from standard airline loyalty programs by forgoing complex individual status levels. There are no elite tiers such as Silver, Gold, or Platinum for passengers. Instead, the program operates on a community-wide basis where the "status" and benefits are shared collectively:

• Community-Based Structure: Rather than individual travelers climbing a ladder of tiers, the program is open to non-profit organizations and community groups within the airline's network.
• Equal Recognition: All passengers are treated with the same high level of care and service on board, regardless of how frequently they fly, as the rewards are directed toward community development rather than personal perks like lounge access or priority boarding.

Earning Points

The earning mechanism of AviairGO is simple and transparent, transforming every ticket sold into a charitable contribution. The process works seamlessly in the background of every scheduled service:

• Points per Sector: For every passenger traveling to or from a participating location, Aviair allocates points to the local community pool.
• Value Generation: Typically, the airline donates 2 AviairGO points per passenger per flight sector.
• Monetary Equivalent: These points are converted into a monetary value (e.g., 1 point equals $1) which is then banked for the specific town's community fund.
• Automatic Accumulation: Passengers do not need to present a card or number; the contribution is automatically calculated based on passenger numbers on scheduled routes.

Redeeming Rewards

The accrued points are redeemed by registered local organizations to fund initiatives that benefit the broader population. This ensures that the "miles" flown by residents and tourists translate into real-world aid:

• Community Sponsorships: Funds are used to sponsor local events, festivals, and educational programs.
• Flight Vouchers: Organizations can redeem points for flight vouchers, which are often used as prizes for fundraising raffles or to transport community members for medical or sporting requirements.
• Equipment and Support: Points can be directed toward purchasing uniforms for sports teams or equipment for local facilities.

Alliance Membership

Aviair operates as an independent regional airline and is not a member of major global alliances such as Star Alliance, oneworld, or SkyTeam. Its network focuses exclusively on Western Australia, and it does not currently have interline earn-and-burn agreements with major domestic carriers like Qantas or Virgin Australia. The loyalty focus remains strictly on its own AviairGO community support initiative.

How to Join

Since the program rewards organizations rather than individual flyers, the "joining" process is designed for community groups:

• Eligibility: Non-profit organizations, clubs, and community groups located in the towns Aviair serves can apply.
• Registration: Groups must complete an application form via the Aviair website to become a beneficiary of the program.
• Travelers: Individual passengers participate simply by booking their flights; no registration is required for travelers to help their community earn points.

Cabin Classes and Comfort

Aviair offers a unique flying experience distinct from large commercial jetliners. As a regional carrier operating a fleet of turboprop aircraft, such as the Cessna 208 Grand Caravan and the Pilatus PC-12, the airline provides a single-class service across all its routes. There are no separate Business or First Class cabins. Instead, every passenger enjoys a personalized and intimate atmosphere. The cabin design prioritizes visibility, ensuring that all travelers have excellent opportunities to view the stunning landscapes of Western Australia from above.

Seating Configuration
The seating layout is designed to maximize comfort within the compact fuselage of regional aircraft. On the Pilatus PC-12, passengers can expect a pressurized cabin with executive-style seating, often arranged in a 1-1 configuration which offers generous legroom and direct aisle access for most. The Cessna Grand Caravan typically features a 1-2 layout. All seats are upholstered in high-quality leather and are equipped with air-conditioning vents to keep passengers cool in the tropical heat of the Kimberley and Pilbara regions.

In-Flight Services and Amenities

Entertainment and Atmosphere
Aviair does not utilize traditional electronic in-flight entertainment systems like seatback screens or Wi-Fi. The primary form of entertainment is the spectacular view outside the large windows. Pilots often provide commentary on scheduled scenic routes or interesting landmarks, adding an educational and engaging element to the journey. The flights are generally short, serving as quick hops between regional centers or scenic loops, so the focus is on the exterior beauty rather than digital distractions.

Meal and Beverage Service
Due to the short duration of most flights and the absence of cabin crew on these smaller aircraft, there is no full meal or beverage service on board. On select longer charter flights or specific scenic tours, light refreshments or water may be available, but for standard scheduled services, passengers are advised to consume meals prior to boarding. You are generally permitted to bring a bottle of water on board to stay hydrated during the flight.

Special Services and Accessibility

Passenger Assistance
Traveling on smaller aircraft requires a degree of mobility. Boarding is typically conducted via a small set of stairs integrated into the aircraft door, rather than via an aerobridge. Passengers with reduced mobility should contact Aviair well in advance to discuss their specific needs. While the crew is dedicated to assisting where possible, the physical constraints of the aircraft mean that wheelchair access into the cabin is limited, and passengers must usually be able to ascend the stairs with assistance.

Traveling with Children
Aviair welcomes families, and the visual nature of the flights often makes them exciting for children. Infants under the age of two can travel free of charge when seated on an adult's lap. For older children, the large windows and low flying altitude provide a fascinating introduction to flying, offering a clear view of the ground below that is rarely possible on high-altitude commercial jets.

Destinations & Route Network

Aviair connects travelers to the rugged beauty of Western Australia from its main hub in Broome. The airline's network focuses on essential regional links, providing vital access to remote communities and key industrial centers in the Pilbara and Kimberley regions, ensuring that even the most isolated destinations remain accessible.

Booking a flight with Aviair allows you to explore some of Western Australia's most remote and stunning regions. To secure the best fares, it is highly recommended to book your tickets well in advance. Regional routes, such as the flight from Broome to Fitzroy Crossing, operate on smaller aircraft with limited seating capacity. Booking early ensures you get a seat on your preferred date and helps you avoid last-minute price increases that can occur as the plane fills up.

Finding deals and promotions for regional carriers like Aviair (GD) often requires checking their official website directly. While they may not offer the same frequency of flash sales as major international airlines, keeping an eye out for seasonal announcements can be beneficial. Flexibility is key; if your travel dates are adjustable, you may find better availability and pricing on less busy travel days.

To streamline your airport experience, take advantage of online check-in procedures where available. This is particularly useful if you are traveling light. Regarding seat selection, flying over the Australian outback offers incredible scenery. On routes like Port Hedland to Newman, selecting a window seat is a must for capturing breathtaking views of the unique landscape below. Be sure to check the seat map during the booking or check-in process to choose your preferred spot.

Given the nature of regional travel, purchasing comprehensive travel insurance is strongly advised. Weather conditions in remote areas can occasionally lead to schedule changes, and insurance provides peace of mind for your journey. Regarding mobile convenience, ensure you have your electronic ticket or booking confirmation saved on your smartphone. Even if you do not use a specific mobile app, having your documents digitally accessible makes the boarding process with Aviair much smoother.

History & Development

Aviair (GD) traces its roots back to 1984, when it was founded as Slingair by aviation pioneer Kerry Slingsby in the remote town of Kununurra. Starting with a single Cessna 185, the company was born out of a vision to showcase the breathtaking landscapes of the East Kimberley to visitors. In its early years, the airline played a crucial role in opening up tourism in the region, becoming particularly famous for pioneering scenic flights over the Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park, a natural wonder that was largely unknown to the outside world at the time.

Strategic Acquisition and Growth
A pivotal moment in the company's history occurred in 2011 when it was acquired by local aviation entrepreneurs Michael McConachy and Geoff Hamilton. This change in ownership marked the beginning of a significant transformation. The new leadership focused on modernizing the business and expanding its capabilities beyond tourism into the corporate and commercial charter sectors. Under the umbrella of HM Consolidated, the airline began to integrate its operations more closely with its sister company, HeliSpirit, creating a comprehensive aviation network across Western Australia.

Rebranding to Aviair
To reflect its evolution from a purely scenic flight operator to a sophisticated regional airline, the company officially rebranded as Aviair in 2016. This name change signaled a strategic shift toward offering scheduled Regular Public Transport (RPT) services. The rebranding coincided with the company's successful bid to operate key regulated air routes in the region, establishing it as a primary provider of essential transport links for residents, businesses, and government workers in the Kimberley.

Fleet Modernization
Over the decades, Aviair has transitioned its fleet from small piston-engine aircraft to a robust lineup of turbine-powered planes designed for reliability in the harsh Australian outback. The introduction of the Cessna 208 Grand Caravan became the backbone of their short-haul and scenic operations, valued for its air-conditioned comfort and high-wing visibility. In a major leap forward for capacity and speed, the airline later added the pressurized Pilatus PC-12 to its fleet. This acquisition allowed Aviair to operate longer sectors faster and more comfortably, connecting distant hubs efficiently.

Network Expansion and Inter-Regional Connectivity
Aviair has significantly expanded its footprint beyond its original Kununurra base. A major milestone was the establishment of a substantial hub in Broome, allowing for increased connectivity across the north-west. The airline launched the Inter-Regional Flight Network (IRFN), connecting towns such as Karratha, Port Hedland, and Newman. This network proved vital for the resource sector and local communities, bridging the vast distances between the Pilbara and the Kimberley that were previously difficult to traverse without connecting through Perth.

Modern Innovations and Recognition
Today, Aviair is recognized not just as a tourism operator but as a key pillar of regional infrastructure. The airline has received numerous accolades, including gold medals at the Australian Tourism Awards, acknowledging its excellence in service. In recent years, it has continued to innovate by investing in state-of-the-art terminal facilities in Kununurra and Broome and maintaining ISO 9001 quality certification. The company remains dedicated to serving the unique needs of remote Western Australia, blending its heritage of scenic discovery with the reliability of a modern scheduled airline.