Fly-in families for mining communities
Families could be reunited with loved ones as the resource sector steps in as airlines slash flights
Business
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FLY-IN families could reunite resource communities with loved ones as the mining sector steps in while airlines slash flights.
Queensland Resources Council chief executive Ian Macfarlane said resource companies operating charter flights for workers would offer spare seats to members of regional communities in urgent need of air travel for health or family reasons.
"Our sector is committed to a 'people first' response to COVID-19 and is not only ensuring we protect our workers but also the communities in which we operate," Mr Macfarlane said.
"While maintaining social distancing on-board charter aircraft, companies where they can will offer spare seats, on a priority basis, to local essential service workers and people in need of urgent travel."
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As flight cancellations impact medical professionals, Mr Macfarlane said seats also could be reserved for health workers and supplies.
He said resource companies could offer local hospitals, medical centres and pathology collection centres in regional towns and cities the opportunity to have samples and urgent packages transported on FIFO charter flights.
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