Karratha flights in doubt as Jetgo goes into administration

Karratha’s planned international and interstate flights are up in the air as the regional airline set to provide them, Jetgo, has today announced it has gone into administration.

In a statement posted on its website this afternoon, the Brisbane-based airline wrote it had appointed corporate insolvency firm McLeod and Partners as administrators.

All of Jetgo’s passenger flights have been suspended for the duration of the administration period, though the company will continue to operate limited charter flights.

Jetgo was preparing to start operating twice-weekly return flights between Karratha and Brisbane from August, and between Karratha and Singapore in September, after the airline and City of Karratha struck an agreement late last year.

City of Karratha Mayor Peter Long said the council had become aware of Jetgo’s intention to go into administration yesterday and had been in discussions with the airline about the potential impact.

He admitted the City did not yet know what the implications of the announcement would be for Karratha.

“Given the relative newness of this development, the impact that the voluntary administration will have on the proposed Karratha to Brisbane and Singapore services in the short, medium and long term is not yet 100 per cent clear,” he said.

“The City understands that Jetgo are seeking to recapitalise and restructure the company and are in active discussions with a number of potential investors.”

“The City intends to work closely with Jetgo and its administrators over the coming weeks.”

Cr Long said despite the setback, the City remained committed to delivering more air transport options for local residents.

News of Jetgo entering into administration follows a court application made by Dubbo Regional Council late last month to wind up the airline over an alleged $271,917 debt.

Jetgo also announced last week they had pushed back the planned Karratha to Brisbane flights, which were originally scheduled to begin on June 25, by several months due to delays with delivery of the Embraer E190 aircraft to be used.

People who have already booked flights with Jetgo have been advised to contact a dedicated hotline (1300 659 116) for assistance.