Mineral Resources launches direct flights from Brisbane to Pilbara
Mineral Resources (ASX: MIN) has launched the first of its direct flight services between Brisbane and WA’s Pilbara region with another set to commence in February as the company seeks to expand its workforce.
The inaugural flight from Brisbane to Ken’s Bore took off on January 11, with the 3700km route taking 5 hours and 45 minutes travelling west and just under five hours on the return leg.
Ken’s Bore is at the heart of Onslow Iron, one of the largest iron ore projects under construction in Australia.
Ken’s Bore Airport became operational last year, allowing the project’s Perth-based teams to fly directly to the site.
Mineral Resources general manager of people facilities Bethanie Ibrahim says direct interstate flights make it faster, easier and cheaper for the company’s staff and contractors to travel to and from Mineral Resources sites.
“For many of our workforce who live in Queensland or elsewhere on the east coast, these services will reduce their travel time by one full day,” she said.
A second flight route from Queensland, the weekly direct service between Brisbane and Wodgina, another Mineral Resources site with its own airport, commences in early February.
Mineral Resources contracted Australian-owned airline Skytraders to operate weekly return flights between the AvCair terminal at Brisbane Airport and Mineral Resources Ken’s Bore and Wodgina mine sites.
Capacity on the Skytraders’ A319 aircraft has been reduced from 150 seats to 110 to ensure those onboard have more legroom to travel in comfort.
Mineral Resources executive general manager, people Andrea Chapman says the direct services will reduce fatigue and ensure Mineral Resources employees will have more time to spend at home with family and friends.
“It’s part of our commitment to redefine the FIFO experience, which also includes the construction of resort-style accommodation and an industry-leading food offering.”
Anyone interested in applying for current vacancies or registering their interest for future opportunities can visit the MinRes careers website: careers.mineralresources.com.au
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