Translink says it is working with Airtrain operators to fix a pricing anomaly.
Brisbane train passengers travelling direct from suburban stations to
the airport pay up to $5.70 more than those who break their trip in
the city.
For example, commuters who travel from Varsity Lakes to Brisbane
Airport pay $30.40 on an adult Go Card.
However, those who touch off their cards at Central Station and change
trains pay just $24.70.
TransLink spokesman Andrew Berkman last night said they were working
with Airtrain, a private company that has run the airport route since
2001, to fix the "anomaly".
"It is just not good enough that people have to pay the higher fares,"
A Go Card trip from Cleveland directly to the airport costs $22.80, as
opposed to $19.60 if the passenger changes at Central.
From Ipswich to the airport is $23.40, but just $20 if the trip is broken up.
Mr Berkman said price variations were a problem right across the network.
"Hopefully we can get it rectified," he said.
Airtrain's share of fare revenue comes from journeys between Eagle
Junction station and the domestic and international terminal stations.
Airtrain signed a contract with the state government before the
rollout of the Go Card and receives no direct subsidy from the state.
Company chief executive Chris Basche did not answer questions
yesterday regarding fares and or the lack of airport train services
after 8pm.
Queensland's Tourism Industry Council CEO Daniel Gschwind said
yesterday Airtrain was not meeting the needs of international
passengers who needed public transport options.
Last night, Tourism Minister Peter Lawlor provided a statement on the issue.
"I am happy to discuss the issue of adequate services for tourists
with Airtrain and Queensland Rail and if there is a need for trains to
run later," he said.
There are no public transport options to and from the airport after 8pm.
Mr Berkman said TransLink had no plans to run buses to and from the airport.
The airport's operator, Brisbane Airport Corporation, collects $2
every time a taxi collects passengers from the terminals.
BAC's Head of Corporate Relations Jim Carden said they would have "no
problem" if TransLink decided to run buses to the Brisbane Airport.
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COMMENT: The Brisbane Airport Corporation stands condemned for its
apparent inaction in getting seriously involved to solve this problem.
It is extraordinary that the BACs Head of Corporate Relations Jim
Carden simply states that the BAC would have "no problem" if buses
were rolled out to the Brisbane Airport. Is this what the BAC really
wants? What is its view on extending the rail service past 8.00pm.?
Jim Carden owes it to the travelling public to get in there and start
fighting for a better deal for commuters. Feeble mutterings about
having "no problem" about buses are no substitute for strong and
decisive leadership to get a better deal for travelers. Over to you
Jim.
