The Australian Airports Association (AAA) applauds the Albanese Government for getting Sydney Airport slot management reforms through Federal Parliament today.
The AAA also acknowledges the dedicated work of the Coalition in passing this legislation.
Modernising the slot allocation system is an essential step to meet current consumer expectations and align with international standards.
“Sydney Airport operates as the linchpin in Australia’s aviation network and this legislation will create a more efficient and transparent system to ultimately benefit passengers,” AAA CEO Simon Westaway said.
“These are the first meaningful reforms in 27 years to the rules that determine how Sydney Airport is run, so this is groundbreaking reform that’s been a long time coming.”
“This legislation levels the playing field for airlines and allows better management of recovery from severe weather or unexpected outages. For many regional communities, access to Sydney Airport’s slots is a lifeline for connection to family, health, legal and government services, and critically to economic participation.
“We hope the Federal Government can now work quickly and transparently to implement new regulations, allowing Sydney Airport to be operating at its optimal best by April next year in time for the European summer travel season.
“Aviation is central to Australia’s economy and connects people and goods across the country and the world, so it’s in everyone’s interest to keep the airports network as dynamic and competitive as possible.”