As a grandparent, I have fond memories of bringing my grandchildren to small regional airports, such as Wagga City Airport (YSWG). Regional airports once had a vibrant aviation community offering places to refuel, have a feed and to socialise (e.g. Tocumwal, Torradin, Shell Harbour and the like).

However, changes in the fee structures force recreational light aircraft operators to other places where they take their spend. A small change in expense to a recreational / sports aircraft operator can force Light Aircraft operators to vote with their feet, and a once vibrant community suffers, including flight training, maintenance, food outlets, rental cars and business in the community. 

Since councils have taken over airport guardianship it seems there is a class of management where they believe it should gouge money from visitors.

Unlike boat-ramps, parks, and roads that do not impose expenses on their users, we have councils pushing light aircraft to other airports that do attract aircraft with their community spirit and and more competitive outlook e.g. Temora, Cowra, Narromine, Tocumwal, Tumut, Yarrawonga, Mount Beauty, Porpunka, Tumbarumba, Jindabyne, Adaminaby, Millawa and Lockhart to name a few in this region. Those later airport custodians understand just how important their community gateways are to the health of the community, while places like Wagga Wagga and West Wyalong, Orange and others do not. They lose custom instead.

Our local airports are the lifeblood for small aviation enthusiasts, trainers, and professionals alike. Abolishing landing fees at regional airports for sport and recreational aircraft users would attract more light aircraft and visitors, pumping life back into those communities and bringing custom to the nearby town.

Considering that light aircraft are integral in attracting and training our youth for a career in aviation, then making regional airports more accessible again for light aircraft could significantly contribute to developing the next generation of pilots and aviation professionals. The economic and social impact could be immense, both for the airport community and the broader region. 

Thus, we call for the reduction in charges and abolition of landing fees for light aircraft at regional airports. This is not just a petition – this is a fight for our future, our children's aspirations, and the life essence of our local airport community. Sign this petition if you stand with the aviation community at your regional airports and support the next generation of aviators and their dreams.

If small places like Lockhart, Milawa, and Adaminaby can attract custom, your local airport should be able too.