The government has also given its biggest hint of its support for the relocation of the East Gippsland Institute of TAFE to Sale to make way for the interim school.

Representatives from the government and Wellington Shire Council will discuss the West Sale proposal with Defence Department personnel today in Canberra.

Three companies bidding for the IBFTS contract have identified West Sale as their preferred location for the school.

The interim operation, which would bring at least $100 million worth of development to the region, would involve 20 to 30 training aircraft and about 450 trainees a year.

During a visit to the aerodrome this week, State Industry and Trade Minister Martin Pakula said the government would take action to support the three bidding companies to bring the school to West Sale.

"There are a number of things that would be included in the bid, it's not just about the facilities at the airport itself, there are a number of things the State Government will consider supporting the bids on,'' he said.

"But we have to recognise that this is a competitive process - all Defence Force projects are.

"There are bids from other states, so we'll keep our cards close to our chest to what sort of support we'll provide because we want to give the Victorian bid the best chance of success,'' he said.

Mr Pakula said the government would support the relocation of the TAFE and look at landing rights and planning processes to make West Sale bids more attractive.

He said the it would also work with the bidders and Wellington and East Gippsland councils to give West Sale the best chance of securing the flying school.

For more, read Friday's Gippsland Times.