Media Release
20 April 2005

Sky High Fuel Prices Force Further Levy Increase

Skippers have been forced to follow the majority of Australia's airlines by increasing its fuel levy from $12 to $19 to assist in subsidising elevated jet fuel costs.

The past month has seen the price of crude oil and Jet A1 reach record levels. While the cost of crude oil appears to have eased a little in the past few days, Skippers will continue to experience Jet A1 fuel at record prices until a sustained reduction in the crude price can be achieved.

Skippers CEO Rob Swann said “Although the increased levy will still not cover all costs concerned, it is consistent with other major and regional carriers' announcements and will go part of the way in relieving the increased pressure from the cost of jet fuel on current fare prices.”

“We thank our customers for their understanding and loyalty in the midst of these rises and assure them that we will endeavour to keep our core prices as competitive as possible within the current marketplace”, Mr Swann said.

The $19 surcharge is expected to come into effect on Thursday, 21st April 2005 and will remain in place until there is evidence of a long term improvement in jet fuel prices.

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For further information, please contact:
Rob Swann on Ph: (08) 9478 3989