It follows an announcement Qantas would launch a flying school, somewhere in regional Australia, to help combat low pilot numbers.

The airline intends to have the academy up and flying as early as 2019, with a $20 million investment confirmed this week.

According to the company chief executive, the plan was to set up the Qantas Group Pilot Academy near a pre-existing and relatively clear airfield.

Wagga councillor and businessman Kerry Pascoe said he hoped staff at council would seriously consider advocating for the training centre to be brought to the city. 

“Why not Wagga?” Cr Pascoe said.

“Our airport has some great potential to expand … and the industry has a whole heap of potential, with a whole heap of businesses at the airport in Forest Hill.”

He said there was no reason the academy should not come to Wagga. 

The push comes ten years after Regional Express airlines launched its REX Pilot Cadet Program at the council owned site. 

The airline commenced its unique training centre in December 2007, to combat a world-wide pilot shortage, committing $32 million across the decade. 

“There are a lot of things that – if they tag on to the REX establishment – they could learn from,” Cr Pascoe said.

“It would bring good benefits and bring more people to town.”

Similarly, councillor Vanessa Keenan said she would encourage the city to place a bid for the academy to launch in Wagga. 

“We are already established in aviation training,” Cs Keenan said. “We have a very long history in aviation, being the home of Kendell Airlines and others. We also have the RAAF base here.” 

Mayor Greg Conkey echoed his councillors in welcoming the possibility for economic and industry growth, with a very successful pilot program having provided a boost to both for many years. 

“We would be interested in any business looking at relocating and establishing here,” Cr Conkey said. 

“We believe we’re a great regional city, with a lot to offer.” 

Riverina passengers flying on QantasLink will also benefit from major cabin upgrades to its fleet of turboprop aircraft, which was also announced this week.