
The owner of a Hunter-based regional airline has welcomed the federal government's $300 million coronavirus support package for small operators.
FlyPelican's Marty Hawley said he was looking forward to hearing further details of how and when the support will be implemented, after Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack announced the funding on Saturday.
Mr Hawley told the Newcastle Herald last week that his company required financial help to survive and needed an answer from the government in a matter of days - not weeks.
Labor Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon said she spoke with Mr McCormack about the plight of small operators like FlyPelican due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
"Airlines aren't like other businesses," she said.
"They play a key role in connecting families, friends and communities, while also promoting trade and supporting essential services. Importantly, they help drive economic growth across our vast nation."
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