QUEENSLAND-BASED airline Hinterland Aviation has enlisted advisory firm William Buck to sell 100% of its operations.
Documents released by the agent to a handful of potential buyers have been obtained by the Australian Financial Review, which lists succession planning as the major driver for the sale.
Started in 1984, the regional airline has steadily grown its route map from its headquarters in Cairns, now flying to destinations such as Lizard Island and Cooktown, as well as a range of locations in the Torres Strait, such as Horn Island.
The carrier also offers a range of charter services to companies in the mining, medical, and government segments.
According to the sale flyer, Hinterland is in the air roughly 13,500 hours every year, carrying 100,000 pax on 16,000 flights.
The company is expected to generate $31 million in revenue for the 2025 financial year, solid growth on the $23.7 million it recorded just two years ago.
Prospective buyers were told Hinterland was a good investment because of the high bar of entry for competitors, and the increasing need for better regional air connections in Qld and Torres destinations.
“Regional routes in far-north Queensland have historically faced inconsistent service, creating frustration and uncertainty for local communities,” the flyer stated.
“In contrast, Hinterland Aviation has earned the trust of these communities by delivering safe, reliable and consistent operations,” it added.
Further growth opportunities are on offer through network expansion, bolt-on acquisitions, and leaning more heavily into charter and freight services.
The company is owned by John and Peter Christoudias, employs around 90 staff, and operates a fleet of 13 12-seater Cessna Caravans, with two Cessna C408 Sky Couriers on the way. AB
