The popular Return and Earn scheme for recyclable glass, metal, and plastic drink containers is now taking to the skies for a high-flying charity, 10 cents at a time!

Dubbo Regional Airport will donate the proceeds from all bottles and cans collected through specially signposted bins to Little Wings, the NSW, ACT, and Queensland charity that provides free flights for seriously-ill children and their families in the bush.

Called "Fuel Our Planes", the local initiative was recently launched in Dubbo by Little Wings CEO Clare Pearson.

“Every 20 bottles returned equals one litre of aviation fuel, and every litre helps us keep families connected and supported during their most difficult times,” Ms Pearson said.

“We hope this campaign inspires the local community to get involved, recycle, and make a real difference for local families,” she added.

Little Wings connects regional families with the life-saving medical care they need in the city’s children’s hospital network and brings them home to recover.

With Dubbo Regional Airport being one of Little Wings’ busiest operational hubs, hosting daily flights to and from city hospitals, the partnership is a natural fit, she believes.

Branded Little Wings recycling bins at the airport will encourage travellers, staff, and the community to contribute their bottles and cans to “fuel a mission", and reduce the financial burden, emotional stress, and travel fatigue experienced by families caring for seriously-ill children.

Ms Pearson also acknowledged Dubbo's St Vincent de Paul Society's (“Vinnies”) Return and Earn volunteer team who will collect, recycle, and donate the cans and bottles to ensure that the fundraiser runs smoothly.

“We’re so proud to see Dubbo Regional Airport taking the lead in the region and helping us keep our planes in the air,” she concluded.