Koala Airlines: new Aussie carrier aims to launch, but is it serious ...

Just two months after Bonza’s closure was confirmed, and a month after Rex’s Boeing operations were grounded, a new Australian airline (with a very Aussie name) has emerged as a possible new carrier – and a fresh rival to the current duopoly of Qantas and Virgin Australia. But let’s not get too excited just yet about Koala Airlines.

The fledgling domestic carrier has announced its intention to enter the commercial passenger aviation market by launching new Boeing 737-8 flights between yet-to-be-disclosed destinations. 

But how serious is this apparent company about getting involved in a ruthless market in which two carriers recently went into administration – with one entirely disappearing? That’s not to mention a litany of other failed operations like Ansett, Compass Airlines and Australian Airlines. 

According to Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), Koala Airlines currently doesn’t hold an air operator and aerial work certificate. 

Could Koala fly to Canberra?

Its website also gives little away. And the only means of contact is via an online request form.

“As we progress, we will reveal more with you and welcome those in the industry who share our vision for innovation and excellence,” it states. 

Imagery of a Koala Airlines plane on its website shows a B737-8 flying above Brisbane, Perth and Canberra, which suggests the Melbourne-based carrier would at least fly to these destinations – if it were to launch.

Not new?

According to its website, the business behind the fresh brand isn’t a new operation.

“In 2019, Koala Airlines proudly acquired Desert Air Safaris Pty Ltd, a pioneering company in air tours and charter flights that had been operating for over 50 years throughout Australia, PNG and the Pacific Islands,” it says. 

“This acquisition brought together two passionate entities dedicated to enhancing travel experiences both domestically and internationally.”

In 2024, it adds, “the legacy of Desert Air will continue under the rebranded name of Koala Airlines”.

“With a rich heritage to build on, our focus is clear: we aim to distinguish ourselves by our new initiatives and innovations that complement rather than compete with established norms.”

What about Perth?

According to the company, “Koala’s strategy will fundamentally differ from previous entrants in a domestic market which has been long dominated by two major airlines since the Australian government first introduced the Two Airline Policy in 1952”.

It also aims to “break the mold” – though it doesn’t state how, instead using broad terms to loosely define its mission.

“While many new low-cost carriers have entered the market since 1990 and focused solely on offering cheaper fares, almost entirely leading to unsustainable competition, Koala is taking a more innovative route,” it says on its site.

“Our goal is to carve out a unique niche that enhances the industry landscape without disrupting existing standards by creating a lasting impact on the industry.”

Who’s involved?

The would-be carrier, however, says it does have a CEO with more than 45 years of experience in the aviation industry, Bill Astling.

“Bill has been involved in the aviation and tourism industry for over 45 years, possessing extensive experience in aviation management, airline restructuring, operations, aircraft chartering, strategy and customer service, with expertise in stakeholder engagement across all levels of business,” it states.

“With his team of aviation professionals, Bill provided a range of consulting services from senior leadership to operational, technical and advisory roles to 12 existing and start-up airlines in the Asia Pacific region since the early 1990s.”

Among these, it says, are Singapore Airlines, Air India, Sri Lankan Airlines, Malaysian Airlines, Vietnam Airlines and multiple Chinese Airlines.

The company also names Phil Le Liu as a Director.

In addition, Koala Airlines says it is looking for experienced executives to head a bunch of roles “as the company progresses”. These include a CEO designate, CFO, Head of Commercial, Head of Cabin Crew and Chief of Human Resources.

The enterprise also boasts something called Koala Tech, “a groundbreaking technology platform designed to revolutionise the aviation industry”.

“This innovative platform seamlessly integrates a range of aviation business applications, enabling comprehensive automation and harnessing the full power of artificial intelligence,” it states.

All Images Koala Airlines