Mayor determined to retain airport status

The announcement by OzJet to cancel the proposed launch of services between Palmerston North and Brisbane has been received with disappointment by key stakeholders in the local community.

The Mayor of Palmerston North, Jono Naylor, says he’s extremely surprised by the decision at “such a late stage in our planning with OzJet.”

“This decision by OzJet comes as a result of change in their ownership and does not alter Palmerston North’s view that potential exists for an international air service,” he says.

“I’ve been in contact with airport manager, Garry Goodman, and support every initiative he is taking to secure a replacement service. The city has clearly told us that they want their international airport retained and we will do everything possible to ensure this happens.”

“We need to continue to work hard to ensure the strategic gateway position for Manawatu is maintained.”

Mayor Jono Naylor is encouraged to hear that all passengers booked on OzJet services will be fully refunded but he sympathises with them in this time of disruption and disappointment.

The proposed unveiling of the new sculpture in the Square will still proceed as planned on Sunday although a planned launch for OzJet this weekend has been cancelled.