A scenario approach to airport evaluation in remote communities: with particular reference to the Pilbara region of Australia

Coordinated development of aviation facilities and services is critical for geographically remote communities. Improvements in aviation capability can be assisted by an analytical base for determining the implications of alternative configurations of air services in terms of links to be served, airport/aerodrome investment, type of flight equipment and flight frequency. We outline a method for identifying airport supply configurations to meet air service demand to and from the Pilbara region of north-west Australia. The approach emphasises minimum levels of demand required from a community in order to justify provision of air services of a given scenario. The method is influenced by the paucity of data on demand in remote communities, and the consequent risk of relying solely on demand-side forecasts of patronage levels. It is therefore particularly useful in assessing transport systems associated with remote resource development projects which are notable for the rapidity of change which they can bring. The approach has relevance to a wide range of transport applications.