NQ bid to host flying school

AN AIRPORT in bushland 30km north of Townsville is vying to become the home of the nation’s $ 20 million Qantas Group Pilot Academy which, if successful, could transform the city.

Bluewater Airport is a privately owned facility which its venturers say has about 240ha of land and scope for greenfield development to really catch the eye of the flying kangaroo.

Owner Alan Middleton believes they have a real shot.

“I’d like to see Townsville excited about this. Yes, we are in there with a chance so let’s get excited,” Mr Middleton said.

Consultant Philip Batty said the airport “ticks all the boxes” in a lengthy list of criteria from its sealed 1600m airstrip to a requirement for 300 days a year of clear flying.

The feedback from industry participants is that they have a good chance, while there has also been support from government, education and training organisations.

“Bluewater offers Qantas a perfect opportunity to create something special, something which will be the envy of the world,” Mr Middleton said.

“The bid has been support- ed by federal, state and local governments plus many local industries and educational institutions.”

But there is a lot of competition for an academy which will create hundreds of jobs, millions of dollars in investment and, possibly, allied aeronautical industry.

Qantas CEO Alan Joyce has announced the airline will open with an initial intake of 100 trainee pilots in 2019, growing to train up to 500 pilots a year when fully established.

“We want to help shape the next generation of pilots and that’s why we’re establishing the Qantas Group Pilot Academy,” the airline says.

A Qantas spokeswoman confirmed 55 regional cities and towns across Australia from Devonport to Dubbo had submitted bids.

“We’re really pleased with the response we’ve had from local communities and state governments around Australia,” a Qantas spokeswoman said.

“More than 55 regional cities have put forward a proposal to be home to our new Group Pilot Academy.

“Over the next few weeks we’ll be reviewing these responses ( against) key selection criteria before a shortlist is announced towards the end of this month.”

The owners of Bluewater Airport hope to be on that list.