22 April 2003

Mr. Graeme Innes AM,
Deputy Disability Discrimination Commissioner,
Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission,
G.P.O. Box 5218,
Sydney, NSW 1042.

Dear Graeme,

Thank you for the opportunity to meet at Airnorth last month to discuss the carriage of disabled persons on regional aircraft.

The RAAA supports the Airnorth initiatives, and objectives, in seeking to find an acceptable system of compliance to enable the carriage of disabled persons on its airline, and at the same time, meet the requirements of safe work practices.

The RAAA also supports the Airnorth application for the exemption sought from the Disability Discrimination Act 1992, which will enable Airnorth to meet the needs of all of its customers and staff.

In rural, and remote communities, air travel is often the only realistic option to a long road trip, and the RAAA commends Airnorth for the understanding, and comprehensive approach taken to the carriage of its disabled customers.

Yours Sincerely,

Bob Mason
Chief Executive Officer
Regional Airlines Association of Australia