Rex Exits Taree – Sydney Route

Regional Express has today announced that it will exit the Taree to Sydney route with the last service operating on Saturday 27 January 2018.

Rex’s General Manager, Network Strategy & Sales Warrick Lodge said:

“Rex commenced servicing the Taree to Sydney route more than 10 years ago in February 2007. This followed the collapse of Big Sky Express Airlines in late 2006 and a request from the Greater Taree City Council. The Taree route is loss-making for Rex however, the impetus to withdraw from the route originated from the Mid Coast Council’s refusal to supply a 3-phase power outlet to the airport apron (an investment of less than $1,000) when Rex was prepared to invest $23,000 for a new 3-phase Ground Power Unit that would improve operating efficiencies and reliability on the route.”

“Rex was dismayed by the decision of the Mid Coast Council to hold back key services for the primary user of Taree airport given that Council had spent in excess of $4.2M on airport upgrades over the previous three years without consulting with Rex to understand its needs.”

“Rex had earlier given the Mid Coast Council one year to find a replacement airline and Rex has recently been informed by Council that a replacement airline has been sourced. As Taree to Sydney is a licensed route, Rex has provided more than the required four weeks’ notice to Transport for NSW of its intention to withdraw from the route.”

The Rex services between Newcastle and Sydney, which are currently shared with Taree, will continue to operate as normal with 36 weekly services between Newcastle and Sydney.

Taree passengers holding Rex reservations for travel beyond 27 January 2018 will be offered a full refund.

Regional Express (Rex) is Australia’s largest independent regional airline operating a fleet of more than 50 Saab 340 aircraft on some 1,500 weekly flights to 60 destinations throughout all states in Australia. In addition to the regional airline Regional Express, the Rex Group comprises wholly owned subsidiaries Pel-Air Aviation (air freight and charter operator), Air Link (Dubbo-based regional airline) and the Australian Airline Pilot Academy.

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