Air connectivity to Stewart Island has been boosted with a Regional Infrastructure Fund loan to the island\u2019s sole airline, Associate Regional Development Minister Mark Patterson says.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis initiative continues the Government\u2019s commitment to strengthen regional air services and support the vital economic and social benefits regional airlines bring to some of our most remote communities,\u201d Mr Patterson says.<\/p>\n
A $640,000 loan to South East Air, owner of aircraft operated by Stewart Island Flights, will support the refurbishment and return to service of an aircraft it owns \u2013 boosting the fleet from four to five aircraft.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis loan means the airline will be able to better meet peak season demand and scheduled services can continue when aircraft maintenance is prolonged by unforeseen delays.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt will also support island residents\u2019 access to healthcare services and education, boost response times in an emergency, and help drive Stewart Island\u2019s tourism, trade and general business activity.\u201d<\/p>\n
The loan to South East Air is part of a $30 million Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) package developed in 2025 to support vulnerable regional air services.<\/p>\n
The regional air connectivity package is designed to help regional passenger airlines manage debt, maintain their fleets, and continue operating the routes important for the wellbeing, resilience and economies of regional communities.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis loan will shore up a vital connection for Stewart Island to the mainland, particularly with ongoing higher fuel costs continuing to have an impact on the aviation sector,\u201d Mr Patterson says.<\/p>\n
\u201cHaving viable regional airlines is an important part of ensuring the communities in our regions have the best chance to thrive.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Air connectivity to Stewart Island has been boosted wit 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