Lyne MP David Gillespie has canvassed future possibilities for additional flight capacity and new destinations in discussions with Virgin Airlines chief executive officer John Borghetti.

Port Macquarie Airport’s $21 million upgrade, officially opened this month, paves the way for larger jets.

Dr Gillespie previously wrote to Mr Borghetti seeking his consideration of additional destinations Virgin Australia might fly to and from Port Macquarie, including Melbourne, as the airline continues to plan its medium and long term business opportunities for the future. Mr Borghetti indicated in a letter that there were no short term plans but he said there might be some opportunities in the medium term.

Dr Gillespie said during discussions in Canberra this week, Mr Borghetti highlighted the opportunities that might be available for Virgin Australia and the low-cost carrier Tigerair which is majority-owned by the airline. 

“My suggestions were that while a daily service appears to be some time away, the airline may consider say a Friday return flight and a Monday flight from Port Macquarie to Melbourne,” he said.

Dr Gillespie said since council upgraded the airport in 2007, air passenger movements out of Port Macquarie had grown from 75,000 a year to nearly 240,000 a year.

“What Mr Borghetti has indicated to me is that as we continue to support our local air services, the number of services and destinations will continue to grow,” he said.

Dr Gillespie said Mr Borghetti had informed him that he would speak with his executive about holding further discussions with council and the airline would also continue to monitor and undertake research into the possibility of a Melbourne service.