Developing a FIFO operation in the resource sector

The consulting practice was approached to assist a large producer of LNG to set up an air service to address their need for air travel between their capital city head office and their operations assets in rural areas.

The urgency to move to an air service was prompted by safety concerns arising from the practice of all site visitors using road transport – involving a 5-hour drive and kangaroo hazards. Productivity of personnel and contractors when they reached site was also compromised.

The project involved the development of a Scope of Works, discussions with prospective tenderers, contractual negotiations, assessment of bids, presentations to client management and appointment of the successful operator.
At the time, there was a distinct shortage of charter aircraft which was aggravated by the special demands of this operation into a very short runway at an airport with no navigation aids.

The service was launched a month after we were engaged and following a trial flight and completion of all safety audit requirements by the client parent company.

The overall popularity of the air service has grown to almost 2,000 passengers and 100 return-flights a month and the contracted operator has performed at over 99% reliability — this compares exceptionally well to Australia’s major airlines which achieve approximately 83% on-time (2011 data).