THE high cost of airfares in the city could be hindering opportunities for Tamworth, according to the business chamber.
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A senate committee has recently called for an inquiry into regional airfares, flagging the need for subsidised or regulated prices to help people living outside of metro Australia.
A move which would have the support of Tamworth Business Chamber president Jye Segboer.
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"Tamworth is known to have exorbitant airfares and this has a negative impact on business, tourism and community life," he said.
The senators have now called for a Productivity Commission review into airfare cost which was recognised as having a "direct and detrimental effect on the lived experience of residents" in regional areas.
Mr Segboer agreed some routes could become untenable if fare reductions were enforced, but there had to be a balance.
I acknowledge that supply and demand plays a role but how do you build your numbers when it's so un-affordable to travel
- Business chamber president - Jye Segboer
"I acknowledge that supply and demand plays a role but how do you build your numbers when it's so un-affordable to travel," he said.
He suggested subsidies for medical related travel could help with personal expenses for some.
Mr Segboer called on the federal government to put the interests of regional Australia first and act on the recommendation.
"Reduced airfares would open up more opportunities to attract events, tourism and business opportunities, when a business looks to move regionally airfare and connectivity to our major cities certainly play a part in the decision to relocate, high airline prices could be hindering our regional business growth," he said.