An aviation expert believes the chances of a Westport to Wellington route returning in the future are slim. 

Westport is on the brink of losing its only direct air link to the capital, with flights set to be axed by May unless financial support is secured. 

Regional carrier Originair stepped in to maintain the route after Sounds Air withdrew from the service in 2024. 

Aviation Industry commentator Irene King told Ryan Bridge people just aren't using the route much during the week. 

She says it might be sustainable for sort of unscheduled casual operations but will be very difficult to get someone in there for scheduled flights. 

LISTEN ABOVE 

An aviation expert believes the chances of a Westport to Wellington route returning in the future are slim.&nbsp;
Westport is on the brink of losing its only direct air link to the capital, with flights set to be axed by May unless financial support is secured.&nbsp;
Regional carrier Originair stepped in to maintain the route after Sounds Air withdrew from the service in 2024.&nbsp;
Aviation Industry commentator Irene King told Ryan Bridge people just aren't using the route much during the week.&nbsp;
She says it might be sustainable for sort of unscheduled casual operations but will be very difficult to get someone in there for scheduled flights.&nbsp;
LISTEN ABOVE&nbsp;

A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.

A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.

Early Edition with Ryan Bridge

Irene King: Aviation Industry Commentator on the Westport to Wellington flight link being unsustainable

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/d0d66832-db6e-47a0-be95-b4110171763b/transcript