Vincent Aviation Eyes Up Greymouth Service

Source : Greymouth Evening Star

Plans for a Greymouth-Wellington airline have reached Development West Coast. Vincent Aviation visited Greymouth on August 5, when its 40 seat Bombardier Dash 8 became the largest passenger plane to land here. The flight was a charter of timber company IPL and sparked talk of a Greymouth-Wellington service. Greymouth has had two air services start up and close down recently. Air West Coast operated by the Gloriavale Christian Community flew to Wellington while Coastair operated by an Ashburton company, flew to Christchurch. In October Air New Zealand firmly denied any plans for Greymouth flights, while Grey District Mayor Tony Kokshoorn held out hope that someone would make a go of it. Development west Coast chief executive John Chang, confirmed today it was in the early stages of talks with Vincent Aviation. He was unable to reveal much about the proposal as it was mostly of a confidential nature. Dr Chang said they were considering the idea, and different business models. “DWC have invited a few potential uses of air services (other air services) for general discussion.” The Greymouth Star understands Vincent Aviation would like Development West Coast to underwrite each flight for several thousand dollars. Vincent Aviation managing director was unable to be contacted this morning.