Avalon in eye of the Tiger— CEO

TIGER Airways has declared ‘‘watch this space’’ after Avalon Airport ranked fourthhighest in an online poll of passengers’ preferred new destinations.

Avalon ranked behind Alice Springs, Mackay and Hervey Bay in the poll run across six weeks to help gauge demand.

Airline chiefs yesterday emphasised plans remain undecided, but have pointed to further network expansion as

‘We’re a low-cost airport and they’re a low-cost airline so it makes sense. It would be wonderful to have them back’ – Avalon CEO JUSTIN GIDDINGS

they continue recovery after grounding by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

Communications chief Vanessa Regan said Avalon had maintained top-five voting.

‘‘ There are several destinations around Australia, including Avalon, which are keen for Tiger’s return,’’ Ms Regan said. ‘‘The airline is keen to reinstate a number of popular destinations in the future in our next phase of development.

‘‘We can’t give away our future network plans however we say to the people of Geelong, ‘Watch this space’.’’

Avalon Airport chief executive Justin Giddings said Tiger had been a popular tenant before grounding, its livery remained at the airport ready for use, and talks remained open.

‘‘It’s one of the most on-time airlines in Australia at the moment so they’ve turned it around,’’ Mr Giddings said. ‘‘We’re a low-cost airport and they’re a low-cost airline so it makes sense. It would be wonderful to have them back.’’