This perennial ? and oft denied ? rumour has received a shot in the arm with a speculative article published in the April edition of the prestigious Asia Pacific Defence Reporter (APDR).

The report, penned by Peter La Franchi, makes the point that "mutterings" about aircraft noise are a continuing threat to the future of the Richmond base.

Mr La Franchi, who could not be contacted for comment, read special significance into an as yet to be formally announced decision by the Department of Defence not to close The ADF Basic Flying Training School ? as allegedly originally planned ? in December this year.

The APDR report said the school, a commercial service operated by BAE Systems Australia, had had its contract extended for a further two years.

"Up until the third quarter of last year it (Defence) had been planning to wind down its use of the facility and end the service by December this year," Mr La Franchi wrote.

"Defence is also flagging potential further lengthening of the service arrangement.

"It says that while the Air 5428 new pilot training system project is required to deliver a new solution in the 2014-2015 time frame 'Air Force is investigating interim basic flying training options'.

"That might provide a firm role for Tamworth for another six or seven years."

BAE Tamworth financial manager Sue Murray confirmed yesterday discussions were currently underway to finalise the extension of the contract to 2010.

She had not been aware of any specific Defence plans to end the contract this December and agreed Air 5428 could give Tamworth a training role at least until 2014.