WA Indigenous tourism operators are disappointed by the news flights between the Kimberley hub of Broome and Singapore will stop in July.
Qantas announced on Wednesday that Jetstar Asia would close, with flights on the Broome-Singapore route to cease from July 29.
Western Australian Indigenous Tourism Operators Council (WAITOC) chief executive Rob Taylor told National Indigenous Times he believes "there has been a missed opportunity to connect the European market to a hub in Singapore and then straight into Broome rather than the alternative through Perth or other cities in Australia, which is a more expensive proposition".
"The cessation of these flights will undoubtedly significantly impact tourism in the Kimberley region, which is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant Indigenous cultures. The decision affects not just the broader tourism industry but also specifically the many Aboriginal tourism businesses that rely on international visitors," he said.
"Indigenous tourism operators play a crucial role in preserving and sharing our rich cultural heritage, and the reduction in visitor numbers due to this flight cancellation will pose considerable challenges for them. These businesses, which offer unique and authentic experiences, are essential for promoting understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures, and they are an integral part of the local economy."
Mr Taylor noted that the Kimberley region and its Indigenous tourism sector have worked to build connections with international markets, and the loss of a direct link to Singapore undermines these efforts.
"It's imperative that we explore alternative solutions to ensure that Indigenous tourism in the Kimberley remains vibrant and sustainable," he said.
"While we acknowledge the complexities involved in airline operations and route planning, we urge stakeholders to consider the broader implications of such decisions. The preservation and support of Indigenous tourism are not only beneficial for the communities involved but also for the cultural enrichment of all visitors.
"We hope that through continued dialogue and collaboration, we can find ways to mitigate the impact of this decision and continue to promote the unique and invaluable offerings of Indigenous tourism in the Kimberley."
A Jetstar Asia spokesperson said shutting down the service was a "difficult decision".
"We regret any impacts to the local tourism industry due to the flying season ending earlier than expected," they said in a statement reported by the ABC.
"We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this has caused and all impacted customers have been offered full cash refunds so they can make alternative travel arrangements."