Traffic at Australia's regional airports increased 8% from 2010 to 2012

Australia's Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Economics (BITRE) reported (19-Mar-2013) passenger traffic at the country's regional airports increased 8.4% from 2010 to 2012. The number of regional airports increased from 148 to 171 over the same period. Increased regional traffic was driven primarily by passengers travelling between major cities and regional areas, accounting for 90% of the regional aviation market. Australia's Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Anthony Albanese said the Government invested AUD75 million (USD77.9 million) to upgrade 26 regional airports, including Orange Airport, Ballina Airport and Emerald Airport. Mr Albanese said, "The industry has consistently shown it can adapt to the growing reliance of Australians on aviation both for business and leisure as well as continuing its important role in delivering vital services to regional communities. Strong regional aviation is not just important for regional communities but is also good for Australia. We are committed to working with airlines, airports and regional communities to ensure strong and competitive aviation services for our regional areas now, and into the future." [more - original PR - BITRE] [more - original PR - Minister for Infrastructure and Transport]