Analysis from the Australian Airports Association (AAA) underscores the risk to regional air connectivity if Rex Airlines fails.
The voluntary administration of the airline remains a major source of concern for many regional communities that rely solely on its services.
According to an analysis by the AAA of Lime Intelligence data:
- 42 regional routes are solely serviced by Rex
- The airline flies 20 regional routes serviced by more than one airline
- Rex continues to carry around 75,000 passengers each week
Routes that are only serviced by Rex include:
- Melbourne – Mount Gambier
- Sydney – Parkes
- Esperance – Perth
- Adelaide – Broken Hill
- Sydney – Narrandera
AAA CEO Simon Westaway said the latest analysis shows the relative strength of the regional aviation market and the need to ensure ongoing services.
“Rex is still carrying tens of thousands of passengers to and from regional communities each week, allowing residents to visit loved ones and attend important medical or business appointments,” Westaway said.
“However, this new analysis from the AAA really highlights why the exit of Rex could be so significant for both its employees and customers.
“We welcome the announcement of $80 million in Federal Government funding to keep Rex flying to these communities, but we need to keep working together on a sustainable outcome.
“Many of our regional and remote airport members have detailed significant debts that total more than $4 million owed by Rex, a significant sum for smaller airports.
“We urge the Albanese Government to continue working collaboratively with airports to ensure that no communities are left stranded and regional connectivity is upheld.
“Air connectivity is a lifeline for regional communities and it is vital for governments and industry need to strive toward delivering better services and airfares for these residents.”
Additional information
REX is the major airline (more than 70 per cent seat share) on the following competitive sectors:
- Albany-Perth
- Brisbane-Roma
- Adelaide-Mount Gambier
- Cairns-Normanton
REX is the significant airline (40 per cent -50 per cent seat share) on the following competitive sectors:
- Melbourne-Wagga Wagga
- Griffith-Sydney
- Adelaide-Port Lincoln
- Burnie-Melbourne
The map below shows routes operated solely by Rex (in grey) and routes operated by more
than one airline, including Rex (in red).
