The Council of Australian Tour Operators is calling for an urgent review of the Government’s decision to block Qatar Airways request for additional flights into Australia. CATO is also seeking greater transparency into these decisions going forward.
The lack of transparency around the reasons for the rejection of Qatar Airways’ request has led to unnecessary speculation and stresses which hinder effective planning and could ultimately lead to hesitation from other airlines looking to launch flights to Australia.
CATO members operating both domestically and internationally are seeing their recovery hampered by high fares and limited flights which are deterring passengers from booking travel to and from Australia.
Additional air capacity into Australia will provide immediate relief from high fares, boost the economy and create more jobs.
“Affordable airfares are vital for the recovery of the entire travel and tourism industry and the broader Australian visitor economy. We therefore request that the government urgently review this decision and we seek greater clarity on how these decisions are made. “ said Brett Jardine, Managing Director CATO.
