Rex Airlines

File:Regional Express HQ.jpg in June 2008]]

The airline was established in 2002 when the Australiawide Airlines consortium (set up by former Ansett Australia employees) acquired Hazelton Airlines and Kendell Airlines, before merging the companies and starting operations as Rex in August 2002.Flight International 12–18 April 2005 In 2005, Australiawide Airlines was renamed Regional Express Holdings and partially floated on the Australian Securities Exchange.{{cite press release|url=http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=38&page=MC/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120208033853/http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=38&page=MC/|title=Rex Invests in Pel-Air|publisher=Regional Express|date=30 August 2005|archive-date=8 February 2012}} On 30 November 2005, Rex announced the acquisition of the Dubbo-based Air Link, another regional airline.{{cite press release|url=http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=50&page=MC/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120208033900/http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=50&page=MC/|title=Rex Acquires Air Link|publisher=Regional Express|date=30 November 2005|archive-date=8 February 2012}}

In October 2007, Rex expanded into Queensland when it commenced operations between Brisbane and Maryborough.{{cite press release|url=http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=152&page=MC|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120208033943/http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=152&page=MC|title=Rex Touches Down in Queensland|publisher=Regional Express|date=8 October 2007|archive-date=8 February 2012}} This exacerbated an existing problem within the company of not having enough pilots to crew its flights (due to the expansion of larger airlines, especially Jetstar and Virgin Blue),{{cite press release|url=http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=153&page=MC|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120208033950/http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=153&page=MC|title=Rex Warns of Looming Catastrophic Shortage of Pilots in Australia|publisher=Regional Express|date=9 October 2007|archive-date=8 February 2012}}{{cite press release|url=http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/PDF/Press%20Conference%207th%20Nov%202007.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120208033956/http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/PDF/Press%20Conference%207th%20Nov%202007.pdf|title=Presentation at Press Conference held on 7 November 2007|publisher=Regional Express|date=7 November 2007|archive-date=8 February 2012}} and Rex suspended operations out of Brisbane{{cite press release|url=http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=158&page=MC|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120208034016/http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=158&page=MC|title=Rex Announces Suspension of Maryborough Service due to Pilot Shortage|publisher=Regional Express|date=5 November 2007|archive-date=8 February 2012}} (and from Sydney to Cooma during the summer "low season" for this route to the NSW ski fields){{cite press release|url=http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=155&page=MC|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120208034029/http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=155&page=MC|title=Ongoing Pilot Shortage Forces Regional Express to Temporarily Suspend 'Snowy Mountains' Service|publisher=Regional Express|date=31 October 2007|archive-date=8 February 2012}} in November 2007. To provide a medium-term solution to the pilot shortage, Rex announced that it was establishing a cadet-pilot flight-training programme.{{cite press release|url=http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=157&page=MC|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120208034048/http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=157&page=MC|title=Rex and Mangalore Airport Announce Creation of Pilot Academy|publisher=Regional Express|date=1 November 2007|archive-date=8 February 2012}}

In November 2015, Rex announced the resumption of services to the NSW Snowy Mountains in conjunction with Snowy Mountains Airport Corporation, with the flights resuming in March 2016.{{cite press release|url=http://www.rex.com.au/MediaRelease/Files/469_MR20151119-RextoCommenceServicestotheSnowyMountains.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160314140846/http://www.rex.com.au/MediaRelease/Files/469_MR20151119-RextoCommenceServicestotheSnowyMountains.pdf|title=Rex to commence services to the Snowy Mountains|publisher=Regional Express|date=19 November 2015|archive-date=14 March 2016}} In December 2015, Rex announced that it would be commencing operations in Western Australia in February the following year after being selected by the Government of Western Australia to be the operator of regulated RPT routes after a tender process. Initially operating from Perth to Albany and Esperance, in July 2018 the Western Australian operations expanded to include Carnarvon and Monkey Mia. It brought Rex's weekly flights to roughly 1,500 across 60 destinations.{{cite web|url=https://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Pages/McGowan/2018/06/Carnarvon-and-Monkey-Mia-to-benefit-from-community-airfares.aspx|title=Carnarvon and Monkey Mia to benefit from community airfares|publisher=Government of Western Australia|date=25 June 2018|access-date=1 December 2020|archive-date=29 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929175506/https://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Pages/McGowan/2018/06/Carnarvon-and-Monkey-Mia-to-benefit-from-community-airfares.aspx|url-status=live}}

Starting on 6 April 2020, Rex significantly scaled back all its regional services due to the COVID-19 pandemic, continuing to only offer government-subsidised services within Queensland and Western Australia and one flight a week between all 54 regional and remote communities within its route network. Services including Adelaide to Port Augusta, Sydney to Newcastle and Sydney to Armidale were suspended.{{cite web|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-04-21/rex-continues-servicing-regional-airports-with-covid-19-support/12168072|title=Regional Express to continue servicing regional airports after Government offers COVID-19 lifeline|work=ABC News|location=Australia|date=21 April 2020|access-date=1 December 2020|archive-date=29 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929024320/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-04-21/rex-continues-servicing-regional-airports-with-covid-19-support/12168072|url-status=live}}

In June 2020, eyeing the demise of Tigerair Australia, Rex announced interest in expanding into the domestic airline market between Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Rex leased six Boeing 737-800s previously leased by Virgin Australia to operate the new services, with the first delivered in November 2020.{{cite journal|title=REX ready to enter jet set|journal=Airliner World|issue=December 2020|page=19}}{{Cite web|date=2020-09-30|title=Regional Express (ASX:REX) locks in six Boeing 737–800 NG {{sic|nolink=y|aircrafts}}|work=The Market Herald|url=https://themarketherald.com.au/regional-express-asxrex-locks-in-six-boeing-737-800-ng-aircrafts|last=Melanko|first=Ashleigh|access-date=2020-09-30|language=en-US}} The first jet operations began on 1 March 2021 on the Melbourne to Sydney route.{{cite press release|url=https://cdn-api.markitdigital.com/apiman-gateway/ASX/asx-research/1.0/file/2924-02287514-2A1253317?access_token=83ff96335c2d45a094df02a206a39ff4|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130194017/https://cdn-api.markitdigital.com/apiman-gateway/ASX/asx-research/1.0/file/2924-02287514-2A1253317?access_token=83ff96335c2d45a094df02a206a39ff4|title=Rex locks in six Boeing 737–800 NG for domestic jet operations|publisher=Regional Express|date=20 September 2020|archive-date=30 November 2020}} Also in June 2020, Rex announced that it had entered into a memorandum of understanding with ATR to explore options for replacing the Saab 340 fleet with ATR 42 and ATR 72 aircraft.{{cite press release|url=https://www.rex.com.au/BlobViewer/BlobViewer.aspx?attachtype=MR&filename=78384D575467342F786F7357734751774946524E584E35317139773859777246686859755738482B2F556E4E36646830616737512B57546B6A6E3738506F744D74475754636471516D4E74636F4C78612B54434277673D3D|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200924083426/https://www.rex.com.au/BlobViewer/BlobViewer.aspx?attachtype=MR&filename=78384D575467342F786F7357734751774946524E584E35317139773859777246686859755738482B2F556E4E36646830616737512B57546B6A6E3738506F744D74475754636471516D4E74636F4C78612B54434277673D3D|title=Rex board has approved plans for domestic operations|publisher=Regional Express|date=29 June 2020|archive-date=24 September 2020}} Following the airline's launch of jet services in March 2021, Rex replaced the announced Brisbane jet services in early April with services to Adelaide and Gold Coast, with the start of services occurring between 29 March and 1 April.{{cite web|url=https://www.executivetraveller.com/news/rex-expands-sydney-melbourne-flights-to-gold-coast-adelaide|title=Rex expands Sydney-Melbourne flights to Gold Coast, Adelaide|last=Flynn|first=David|website=Executive Traveller|publisher=Business Travel Media Pty Ltd|date=1 March 2021|access-date=6 March 2021|archive-date=28 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210228180553/https://www.executivetraveller.com/news/rex-expands-sydney-melbourne-flights-to-gold-coast-adelaide|url-status=live}} The airline later cancelled all 737 fights and went into administration.

File:Regional Express Head Office located on 81-83 Baxter Road in Mascot.jpg

{{Infobox company

| name = Regional Express Holdings Limited

| logo =

| type = Public company

| traded_as = {{ASX|REX}}

| foundation = 2002

| location = Sydney, Australia

| key_people = John Sharp AM, Chairman{{cite web |url=https://www.rex.com.au/AboutRex/OurCompany/directors.aspx |title=Board Of Directors |website=rex.com.au |access-date=31 July 2024}}

| industry = Air travel

| products = Airlines, air cargo, air charter

| revenue = A$353.388 million (2024){{Cite web|author=Regional Express Holdings Limited|title=Half Year Financial Report|date=31 December 2023|url=https://www.rex.com.au/AboutRex/InvestorRelations/_lib/pdf/HY/HY_FY2324.pdf|url-status=live|access-date=31 July 2024|archive-date=31 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240731025812/https://www.rex.com.au/AboutRex/InvestorRelations/_lib/pdf/HY/HY_FY2324.pdf}}

| net_income = A$1.379 million (2024)

| homepage = {{url|www.rex.com.au}}

}}

Regional Express Holdings Limited is the parent company of a number of airline and associated companies in Australia. It is based in Mascot, New South Wales (a suburb of Sydney) and is a public listed company on the Australian Stock Exchange. Regional Express Holdings arose from the 2001 collapse of Ansett Airlines, which was the parent company of Kendell Airlines and Hazelton Airlines. A group of Singaporean investors and a collection of Australian private investors purchased the Hazelton and Kendell businesses, which were profitable entities before they were taken over by Ansett. The investors formed Australiawide Airlines, which was officially incorporated on 12 February 2002. The assets of the two airlines were purchased by Australiawide and merged to form the airline Regional Express, known as Rex. In 2005 Australiawide offered a percentage of the owners' shares (35 million out of 115 million shares, or 30.43%) to the public in a float.[http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=42&page=MC Rex Initial Public Offering] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303191639/http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=42&page=MC |date=3 March 2016 }} Media Release retrieved 26 September 2007.[http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=48&page=MC Rex Share Offer] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208060721/http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=48&page=MC |date=8 December 2015 }} Media Release retrieved 26 September 2007. At the same time an agreement was reached with the owners of Pel-Air that Australiawide would purchase Pel-Air.[http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=38&page=MC Rex Invests in Pel-Air] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070831171619/http://www.rex.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=38&page=MC |date=31 August 2007 }} Media Release retrieved 26 September 2007.

As part of the public float process, Australiawide Airlines' name was changed to Regional Express Holdings. Regional Express Holdings is the owner of a number of other companies.[http://www.rex.com.au/AboutRex/OurCompany/Subsidiaries.aspx Regional Express Holdings Corporate structure] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200604044914/http://www.rex.com.au/aboutrex/ourcompany/subsidiaries.aspx |date=4 June 2020 }} retrieved 12 May 2020. The main asset is Regional Express Pty Ltd. which is the company that operates the business of the airline Regional Express (Rex) and owns Rex Airlines Pty Limited. Rex Airlines Pty Limited was registered on the 6 July 2020 as part of Rex domestic expansion plans, responsible for issuing tickets on behalf of Regional Express Pty Limited. Another company is Air Partners Pty. Ltd., which is the company that owns National Jet Express and Pel-Air and Rex Flyer. The third subsidiary company is Rex Investment Holdings Pty. Ltd., which owns the Australian Aero Propeller Maintenance and Australian Airline Pilot Academies based in Wagga Wagga and Ballarat.

File:Virgin Australia (VH-REX) Boeing 737-8FE(WL) at Wagga Wagga Airport.jpg

In July 2024, the company requested a trading halt.{{cite news|url=https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/rex-airlines-to-appoint-ey-as-administrators-20240730-p5jxlq.html|title='We don't want to see Rex fold', government ready to help airline|publisher=Sydney Morning Herald|date=30 July 2024|archive-date=31 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240731024130/https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/we-don-t-want-to-see-rex-fold-government-ready-to-help-airline-20240730-p5jxlq.html|url-status=live}} This sparked comparisons with Bonza, that had collapsed and later was wound up earlier that year, and calls by the Transport Workers' Union of Australia for government intervention, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese asking for time and conditions and criticising the company's move away from regional service. It later suspended ticket sales with plans to exit out of the capital city market and appointed EY as administrators.{{cite news|url=https://www.afr.com/companies/transport/deloitte-says-it-is-not-seeking-to-be-appointed-rex-administrator-20240730-p5jxk0|first=Ayesha |last=de Krester|title=Rex stops selling seats as EY called in|url-access=subscription|publisher=Australian Financial Review|date=30 July 2024|access-date=30 July 2024}} Capital city flights were suspended, with an agreement reached with Virgin Australia to accommodate affected Rex customers between 30 July and 14 August 2024.{{cite press release|url=https://newsroom.virginaustralia.com/release/virgin-australia-announces-support-rex-customers-and-people|archive-date=31 July 2024|archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/IJcgw|url-status=live|title=Virgin Australia announces support for Rex customers and people|date=30 July 2024}} On 31 July, the company was placed into voluntary administration and cancelled all capital cities flights, but continued to operate regional services.{{cite news |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240731022605/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-30/rex-airlines-enters-voluntary-administration/104155898 |archive-date=31 July 2024 |access-date=31 July 2024 |date=31 July 2024 |title=Rex Airlines enters voluntary administration but regional services continue to operate |work=ABC News |first1=Lucia |last1=Stein |first2=Jean |last2=Kennedy |last3=Ainsworth |first3=Kate |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-30/rex-airlines-enters-voluntary-administration/104155898|url-status=live}}{{Cite web |date=2024-07-30 |title=Rex grounds city flights, Virgin steps in to rescue passengers |url=https://www.afr.com/companies/transport/rex-grounds-city-flights-virgin-steps-in-to-rescue-passengers-20240730-p5jxqz |first=Ayesha |last=de Krester |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=Australian Financial Review |language=en |url-access=subscription}}{{Cite web |last=Varley |first=Len |date=2024-08-10 |title=Rex Airlines: A High-Flying Gamble & An Ageing Fleet |url=https://avsn.co.uk/rex-airlines-a-high-flying-gamble-an-aging-fleet/ |access-date=2024-08-15 |website=AviationSource News |language=en-US}} PAG has held off taking the company under receivership, with the hope that the company will be sold instead.{{cite news|url=https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/REGIONAL-EXPRESS-HOLDINGS-6498172/news/Rex-Receivership-Reportedly-Unlikely-as-EY-Prepares-for-Sale-of-Regional-Airline-47652085/|title=Rex Receivership Reportedly Unlikely as EY Prepares for Sale of Regional Airline|date=2024-08-04|access-date=2024-08-21|publisher=MarketScreener}}{{cite news|url=https://insolvencynewsonline.com.au/pag-readies-receivers-for-rex-just-in-case/|title=PAG readies receivers for REX, just in case|date=2024-08-02|access-date=2024-08-21|publisher=Insolvency News Online}} The leases on three of its Boeing 737s were taken over by Virgin Australia.[https://australianaviation.com.au/2024/07/virgin-swoops-for-rex-737s-in-remarkable-turnaround/ Virgin swoops for Rex 737s in remarkable turnaround] Australian Aviation 30 July 2024

In August, the federal government guaranteed flights with Rex or moneyback. Administrators thanked the move as added certainty for customers during the process. However, there has been no specific dollar metric set until the event of cancellation, or say on whether further intervention might be needed to support the business or find a buyer including an outright bailout.{{cite news|date=2024-08-15|access-date=2024-08-19|title=Government guarantees Rex regional flight bookings during airline's administration|publisher=The Guardian Australia|url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/aug/15/rex-administration-regional-flights-government}} This has also drawn slight criticism from unions and the federal opposition, calling it a "stopgap measure" and calling to go further as stated, including guaranteeing staff on the Fair Entitlements Guarantee - a system that was put off in the case of Bonza -, with fears also for keeping remote communities connected to transit and essential services. Meanwhile, after an extended investigation into the source of a $500 million debt or possible insolvent trading, the administrators blamed a series of factors principally a pilot shortage and other supply chain issues, ex-staff entitlements and half-empty seats for the collapse. The company is indebted to a total of 4,800 creditors including ex-staff, airports and funders.{{cite news|date=2024-08-15|access-date=2024-08-19|title=Federal government guarantees regional flights for Rex customers during administration|publisher=ABC News|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-15/federal-government-regional-flight-guarantee-rex-customers/104229848}}

It is estimated that the administration of Rex has resulted in about 600 job losses within the company and counting,{{cite news|date=2024-08-19|title=Administrators for Rex to axe another 73 jobs at troubled regional airline|publisher=ABC News (Australia)|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-19/rex-to-cut-more-jobs-airline-voluntary-administration/104242882}} with the assurance that business is not affected and that the staff are not being stripped right down but in fact were returned to original levels.

On 23 August, the company was granted an extension of the administration by the Federal Court of Australia to 25 November, allowing more time to process and bind expressions of interest but does not intend to use all of it to find a buyer.{{cite news|date=2024-08-23|title=Rex Airlines administrators granted extension to secure a buyer|publisher=News.com.au|url=https://www.news.com.au/finance/business/travel/rex-airlines-administrators-granted-extension-to-secure-a-buyer/news-story/e7088692891e5dfd0d145fa3c9443064|access-date=2024-08-30}} It was later revealed that there are reports of no real interest in buying the company and that the holding company may be either broken up and sold, placed into liquidation,{{cite news|date=2024-09-30|title='No obvious buyers' for Rex, claims source|url=https://australianaviation.com.au/2024/09/no-obvious-buyers-for-rex-claims-source/|publisher=Australian Aviation|url-access=subscription}} and/or moved on to receivership. On 8 October, it was revealed a YouGov poll suggested high popular demand for further government intervention such as part-nationalisation of the company and setting up a separate industry commission, such as a "Safe & Secure Skies Commission", to reduce fierce monopoly and fair work and consumer affairs violations plaguing the industry.{{cite news|date=2024-10-08|title=Albanese government called to buy out beleaguered Rex Airlines|url=https://www.news.com.au/finance/business/travel/albanese-government-called-to-buy-out-beleaguered-rex-airlines/news-story/ec05777f51f6329086ff12686dc8c314|publisher=News.com.au|access-date=2024-10-08}}

In October 2024, Pel-Air was sold to the Toll Group.{{cite web|url=https://www.tollgroup.com/about/news-and-media/toll-group-expands-aeromedical-services-through-acquisition-pel-air|title=Toll Group Expands Aeromedical Services through the Acquisition of Pel-Air|date=24 October 2024|publisher=Toll Group}}{{cite news|url=https://www.fullyloaded.com.au/rex-subsidiary-sale-finalised/|title=Rex subsidiary sale finalised|publisher=Australasian Transport News|date=25 October 2024}} Wagga Wagga flight school, Australian Airline Pilot Academy was also put up for sale for $17 million.{{cite news|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-31/rex-airlines-sells-wagga-wagga-flight-school/104538942|title=Rex Airlines puts Wagga Wagga flight school on market for estimated $17 million|publisher=ABC News (Australia)|date=2024-10-31|access-date=2024-11-03}}

In November 2024 its administration was extended again to 30 June, with the government finally also in talks of giving the company $80 million and early access to the Fair Entitlements Guarantee.{{cite web|title=Rex Airlines' voluntary administration convening period extended as regional routes propped up with govt funding|url=https://www.skynews.com.au/business/markets/rex-airlines-voluntary-administration-convening-period-extended-as-regional-routes-propped-up-with-govt-funding/news-story/3e42279611bad8247edd4e50dfb448fc|access-date=2024-11-26|date=2024-11-21|publisher=Sky News Australia}}{{cite web|title=Labor's $80m Rex handout angers regional rivals and potential buyers|url=https://www.afr.com/companies/transport/labor-stumps-up-80m-to-keep-failing-airline-rex-afloat-20241112-p5kpu3|access-date=2024-11-26|date=2024-11-12|publisher=Australian Financial Review}} This move has angered rivals, who called out the government and administrators for not allowing for any discourse whatsoever and not looking into the greater competition or situation.

Administrators have found themselves in two lawsuits, including one by ASIC alleging the company mislead investors on its financial trend before the collapse.

On 23 January 2025, the federal government announced it would acquire the $50 million in debt from the senior lender PAG in another effort to secure the future of the airline, becoming the new major creditor for the company and, as a creditor, filing to be a voting member in the administration's Committee of Inspection. The Government is reported to be 'supporting' the company in finding a buyer, after the first effort did not find a buyer. While getting bipartisan support from the Opposition, the announcement is made out by the government and analysts as a move to support regional areas in the near next election.{{cite news|url=https://www.9news.com.au/national/albanese-government-acquires-rex-airlines-50-million-debt/1f0aa330-b07d-41a8-8aa2-4ad042802def|title=Federal government takes on Rex Airlines' $50m debt to keep collapsed carrier operating|publisher=Nine News|first=Yashee|last=Sharma|date=2025-01-23|access-date=2025-01-23}}

On 12 February 2025, the federal government announced it would buy the airline if no buyer was found, coinciding with support of prospective buyers for the company. It has clarified it is not particularly in the list of buyers for the company, calling on the private sector to see an outcome for the company first. It will be the first nationally-owned airline since the privatisation of Qantas in 1997. This saw optimism from the TMU, but however, this escalation has sparked some opposition from the Coalition and conservative outlets, pointing out at question time that the taxpayer shouldn't foot the bill to keep the airline afloat, that rivals should have a say in the process which they currently don't, and cynical connections to Albanese himself and if he will appoint disgraced Qantas CEO Allan Joyce, while the Government rebutted with airlines collapsing under their watch and the close connections to the board of the airline who had grandiose plans which ultimately ran the airline to the ground. This has also sparked some opposition from rivals, with the founder of Nexus Airlines Michael McConachy commenting that the sale campaign itself was poor and staggered and a collapse would not affect competition as others can step in and the actually-monopolised routes are few and state-underwritten.{{cite news|url=https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/regional-carriers-slam-labor-s-bailout-of-rex-20250212-p5lbfj|title=Don’t waste cash on Rex bailout, regional carriers warn Labor|date=2025-02-12|access-date=2025-02-12|publisher=Australian Financial Review}}

Rex has been criticised for its close political and financial relationship with the Coalition, particularly the centre-right to right-wing National Party of Australia. John Sharp, Rex's current deputy chairman, was a National Party member of the Australian Parliament from 1984 to 1998.{{Fact|date=December 2024|reason=A loaded sentence that requires a source, otherwise it is a WP:NPV issue.}}

Rex has provided National Party members with flight tickets free of charge during election campaigns, and is a major donor to the political party.{{Cite news |date=2018-02-03 |title=Cabinet minister fails to disclose free travel to campaign for Barnaby Joyce |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/2018-02-04/cabinet-minister-bridget-mckenzie-failed-to-disclose-free-travel/9391140 |access-date=2024-08-05 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU}}

During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, it was revealed that Rex received more taxpayer funds than Qantas and Virgin Australia combined,{{Cite web |date=2020-05-14 |title=Rex received more taxpayer cash than Qantas, Virgin combined |url=https://www.afr.com/companies/transport/rex-received-more-taxpayer-cash-than-qantas-virgin-combined-20200514-p54sty |access-date=2024-08-05 |website=Australian Financial Review |language=en}} despite the Australian flag-carrier being more than six times larger than Rex by number of aircraft and employees.{{Fact|date=December 2024}} In response to this revelation, the then-Labor opposition accused the then-Coalition Government of "supporting their National Party mates", a reference to the close friendship between John Sharp and then-deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Michael McCormack, who authorised the handout.{{Cite web |date=2020-05-14 |title=Rex received more taxpayer cash than Qantas, Virgin combined |url=https://www.afr.com/companies/transport/rex-received-more-taxpayer-cash-than-qantas-virgin-combined-20200514-p54sty |access-date=2024-08-05 |website=Australian Financial Review |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2020-06-08 |title=Rex fails miserably to set record straight |url=https://www.afr.com/rear-window/rex-fails-miserably-to-set-record-straight-20200608-p550gr |access-date=2024-08-05 |website=Australian Financial Review |language=en}}

In 2022, the year the Coalition lost government federally, Rex named a newly delivered 737-800 aircraft after McCormack at the airline's 20th anniversary celebrations.{{Cite web |title='Bold' Rex took advantage of bailout, says McCormack |url=https://australianaviation.com.au/2024/08/bold-rex-took-advantage-of-bailout-says-mccormack/ |access-date=2024-08-05 |website=Australian Aviation |language=en-AU}}

File:Rex Airlines VH-MFM Boeing 737-85R Melbourne International Airport (MEL YMML) (52576942011).jpg. The registration MFM stood for the initials of “Michael Francis McCormack” from its delivery to Rex in 2022 until the aircraft’s withdrawal from service after Rex’s collapse in 2024.]]

Since its inception, Rex has been involved in tense public disputes with many regional councils in Australia, whom operate many regional airports, over airport fees, high airfares and alleged price gouging, airport security costs, operational requirements as well as negative comments about the airline made by regional mayors and councillors, and have made various threats with the intention of pressuring councils to the point where they succumb to satisfying the company's demands.{{Cite web |last=Graham |first=Matt |date=2020-12-17 |title=Rex's "Strong-Armed" Tactics Against Local Councils Exposed |url=https://www.australianfrequentflyer.com.au/rex-strong-armed-tactics-exposed/#Regional_aviation_is_a_tough_business |access-date=2024-12-11 |website=Australian Frequent Flyer |language=en-US}} Threats made by Rex, which in many cases have been followed through, have included temporary or permanent suspension of flights to relevant cities and towns, alleged acts of blackmailing councils, and banning councillors from flying with the airline.{{Cite web |date=2024-04-30 |title=Airline threatens to impose no-fly ban on island mayor over fare rebuke |url=https://www.theadvocate.com.au/story/8612449/rex-airlines-threatens-to-ground-king-island-mayor-over-remarks/ |access-date=2024-12-11 |website=www.theadvocate.com.au |language=en-au}}{{Cite news |date=2024-09-29 |title=For the first time since its collapse, Rex bosses share the inside story of how it all went wrong |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-09-30/rex-airline-collapse-compete-qantas-virgin-four-corners/104403700 |access-date=2024-12-11 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU}} In some cases Rex has directly withdrawn flights to towns in response, without engaging with affected councils. In some cases, Rex's withdrawal of services has left many towns across Australia without an air service.{{Citation needed|date=December 2024}}

In September 2024, it was revealed that USA-based firm Jet Midwest Group filed a {{currency|7.2 million|USD}} (AU$10,737,760) lawsuit alleging Rex unlawfully dismantled parts and scrapped 4 SAAB 340 aircraft in the firm's possession when they were stored at an aircraft boneyard in Kingman Airport, Arizona.{{cite news|url=https://www.afr.com/companies/transport/rex-accused-of-stealing-planes-from-arizona-aircraft-graveyard-20240911-p5k9uj|title=Rex accused of stealing planes from Arizona aircraft graveyard|date=12 September 2024|publisher=The Australian Financial Review}}{{cite news|url=https://australianaviation.com.au/2024/09/rex-accused-of-stealing-planes-from-aircraft-boneyard|title=Rex accused of stealing planes from aircraft boneyard|date=12 September 2024|first=Jake|last=Nelson|publisher=Australian Aviation}} The lawsuit, filed by the firm in the Supreme Court of New South Wales, alleges Rex instructed a third party to remove these parts, which included engines and propellers, as well as to scrap the airframes, and profited from the sale of these components.

The litigant was soon deterred from proceeding by the court, which agreed with the administrators citing that it would be a huge "costly" logistical distraction from the company which will affect the efficacy of the administration. Jet Midwest backed out agreeing that there is no "urgency" in the claim seeing it even took 4 years to take action.{{cite news|url=https://australianaviation.com.au/2024/10/rex-administrator-wins-reprieve-in-stolen-aircraft-lawsuit/|title=Rex administrator wins reprieve in 'stolen aircraft' lawsuit|date=2024-10-31|access-date=2024-11-03|first=Naiomi|last=Nelson|publisher=Australian Aviation}}

In December 2024, following an investigation regarding an ASX tipoff, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission began legal proceedings against four former directors of the company over allegations of deceptive and misleading conduct and dereliction of directorial duty regarding accurately and timely reporting the company's financial performance to the market leading up to its collapse.{{cite news|url=https://www.seymourtelegraph.com.au/national/corporate-regulator-suing-rex-directors-over-breaches/|title=Corporate regulator suing Rex directors over breaches|publisher=Seymour Telegraph|access-date=2024-12-11|date=2024-12-11}}{{cite news|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-12-11/asic-to-sue-rex-airlines-over-deceptive-misleading-conduct/104711156|title=ASIC to sue Rex Airlines alleging company misled the market about its profitability|publisher=ABC News (Australia)|access-date=2024-12-11|date=2024-12-11}} The regulator alleges it was making baseless, disingenuous claims to investors regarding its financial position which also contradicted a massive $35 million profit downgrade forecast. The regulator clarified it is not looking to personally fine the company (especially "given its current circumstances") or claim outright insolvent trading, but leave it to the Supreme Court of New South Wales to declare contravention first which then may result in fines or bans targeted at the offenders themselves.

ASIC later alleged that Rex told investors it shall receive a full-year profit, whilst reeling from a EBT $7 million loss in February 2023 following a $109 million loss in 2022 and seeking $10 million funding citing its cash reserves being "critically low" and "disappointingly and bewilderingly" terrible sales.{{cite news|url=https://australianaviation.com.au/2025/01/rex-scrambled-for-cash-after-bewilderingly-bad-sales-says-asic/|title=Rex scrambled for cash after 'bewilderingly bad' sales, says ASIC|publisher=Australian Aviation|first=Jake|last=Nelson|access-date=2025-01-10|date=2025-01-08}} The airline would ultimately still go on to make a $32 million loss that year in total.

Rex Airlines initially offered regional flights from various bases across Australia using turboprop aircraft, but in March 2021 began flying between its bases using jet aircraft with flights between Melbourne and Sydney. Prior to its voluntary administration in July 2024, its domestic flights were between Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, Gold Coast, Adelaide and Hobart.{{Cite news |date=8 June 2023 |title=Rex airlines to introduce Hobart > Melbourne route, $79 fares |work=The Mercury |url=https://www.themercury.com.au/news/tasmania/rex-airlines-to-introduce-hobart-melbourne-route-79-fares/news-story/ae516d12cfaa8f333f6b8676aefb1217 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=7 June 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230607231025/https://www.themercury.com.au/news/tasmania/rex-airlines-to-introduce-hobart-melbourne-route-79-fares/news-story/ae516d12cfaa8f333f6b8676aefb1217?amp&nk=a0296b29c87b5ffe7b2b01824980eda0-1686179434 |url-status=live |access-date=8 June 2023}}

Rex Airlines operates to the following 45 destinations{{cite web |title=Where We Fly |url=https://www.rex.com.au/FlightInfo/Network.aspx |website=www.rex.com.au |publisher=REX |access-date=14 September 2023}} {{as of|2023|08|lc=y}}:

Rex Airlines currently has Interline agreements with Etihad Airwayshttps://www.etihad.com/en/news/etihad-airways-boosts-interline-deals-with-five-airlines-making-travel-smoother and Delta Airlines.https://www.afr.com/companies/transport/rex-delta-tie-the-knot-after-virgin-divorce-20220502-p5ahth

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{{As of|2024|07}}, Rex Airlines operates the following aircraft:{{Cn|date=January 2025}}

File:Rex Airlines (VH-RQC) Boeing 737-8FE(WL) landing at Canberra Airport (6).jpg at Canberra Airport.]]

File:Fairchild SA-227DC Metro 23, REX - Regional Express AN0397940.jpg at Sydney Airport in 2003.]]

Rex Airlines has previously operated the following aircraft:{{cn|date=July 2024}}

Rex operates the world's largest fleet of Saab 340 aircraft.{{cite news |title=Air safety investigation fail: Wagga REX turbo prop incident |first=Ben |last=Sandilands |newspaper=Crikey |date=11 May 2009 |url=http://www.crikey.com.au/2009/05/11/air-safety-investigation-fail-wagga-rex-turbo-prop-incident/ |access-date=21 November 2009 |archive-date=13 June 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110613163235/http://www.crikey.com.au/2009/05/11/air-safety-investigation-fail-wagga-rex-turbo-prop-incident/ |url-status=live }} The delivery of 25 ex-American Eagle Airlines Saab 340B Plus aircraft started in mid-2007 and enabled the expansion of services and the phase-out of the airline's Saab 340As, and some older B models. The 340B Plus has a quieter and more comfortable interior.

In July 2008 the company announced that all of its 340As would be phased out; however one rejoined the fleet in July 2015 after a 7-year stint with Rex's subsidiary airline Pel-Air and remains in service as of January 2020.{{cite press release | title = Rex Announces Sale of SAAB 340A Freighter To Bridges | publisher = Regional Express | date = 2008-07-10 | url = http://www.regionalexpress.com.au/MediaAndPressClippings/ShowNews.aspx?Site=IR&nid=184 | access-date = 2008-08-24 | archive-date = 4 March 2009 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090304121013/http://www.regionalexpress.com.au/MediaAndPressClippings/ShowNews.aspx?Site=IR&nid=184 | url-status = live }}{{cite press release |url=http://www.rex.com.au/MediaAndPressClippings/ShowNews.aspx?nid=200&page= |title=Rex Plans to Phase Out Older Saab 340A Aircraft |work=Rex Media Release |publisher=Regional Express |access-date=2009-01-14 |archive-date=27 July 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090727180209/http://www.rex.com.au/MediaAndPressClippings/ShowNews.aspx?nid=200&page= |url-status=live }}

The airline also previously operated some Fairchild Metro 23 aircraft seating 19 passengers, but the aircraft were later phased out.

The airline operated an all-Saab 340 fleet with three variants of the type until December of 2020,{{cite web|url=https://www.casa.gov.au/aircraft-register-advanced?search_api_views_fulltext=Regional+Express+Pty.+Ltd.&vh=&field_ar_serial=&field_ar_manu=&field_ar_model=&field_ar_yearmanu_op=%3D&field_ar_yearmanu%5Bvalue%5D=&field_ar_yearmanu%5Bmin%5D=&field_ar_yearmanu%5Bmax%5D=&field_ar_yearmanu%5Bdate%5D=&field_ar_date_first_reg_op=%3D&field_ar_date_first_reg%5Bvalue%5D=&field_ar_date_first_reg%5Bmin%5D=&field_ar_date_first_reg%5Bmax%5D=&field_ar_date_first_reg%5Bdate%5D=|title=Aircraft Register Advanced Search|website=Civil Aviation Safety Authority|publisher=Australian Government|access-date=7 November 2016}} when the airline commenced jet aircraft operations following the delivery of its first Boeing 737-800.

• On 21 February 2016, a Regional Express Airlines Saab 340B, registered VH-ZLA, was forced to take evasive action to avoid a glider while operating from Orange Airport. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) found the Rex aircraft was climbing through 7,500 ft after departing Orange when the crew sighted the glider in "close proximity", and took evasive action.{{cite news|title=Rex Saab 340 in near-miss with glider|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/rex-saab-340-in-near-miss-with-glider-422487|newspaper=FlightGlobal|access-date=29 February 2016|archive-date=1 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160301103634/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/rex-saab-340-in-near-miss-with-glider-422487/|url-status=live}}
• On 17 March 2017, the right propeller sheared off a Regional Express Saab 340B, registered VH-NRX, while operating flight ZL768 from Albury to Sydney. The pilot made a pan-pan call but was able to land the plane without incident. The ATSB after investigating found a fatigue crack in the engine's propeller mounting flange.{{cite web|title=ATSB finds fatigue cracking in Rex propeller incident|url=http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/04/atsb-finds-fatigue-cracking-in-rex-propeller-incident/|website=Australian Aviation|date=13 April 2017|access-date=16 April 2017|archive-date=15 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170415132124/http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/04/atsb-finds-fatigue-cracking-in-rex-propeller-incident/|url-status=live}}
• 23 March 2017, at about 0942 Eastern Daylight-saving Time, a Regional Express SAAB 340B, registered VH-RXS, departed Dubbo Airport, New South Wales to operate scheduled passenger flight ZL821 to Sydney, New South Wales. At about 0944, as the aircraft climbed through about 4,300 ft, the flight crew heard several bangs from the right engine accompanied by jolts through the aircraft.{{cite web|url=https://www.atsb.gov.au/publications/investigation_reports/2017/aair/ao-2017-034|title=Engine failure involving Saab 340, VH-RXS, near Dubbo Airport, New South Wales, on 23 March 2017|website=Australian Transport Safety Bureau|date=18 September 2017}}
• On 29 August 2019, a Regional Express Saab 340B, registration VH-RXX, the crew received a right engine fire indication followed by a loud bang while they were shutting the engine down. The aircraft landed at the planned destination of Merimbula without further incident. The ATSB discovered that the indication and subsequent engine failure was caused by an internal oil fire weakening the turbine blades.{{Cite web|website=Australian Transport Safety Bureau|date=2020-08-13|title=Oil sump coking leads to Saab 340 engine failure|url=https://www.atsb.gov.au/media/news-items/2020/oil-sump-coking/|access-date=2020-09-04|archive-date=15 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210315154244/http://www.atsb.gov.au/media/news-items/2020/oil-sump-coking/|url-status=live}}
• On 8 May 2019, Regional Express Saab 340B aircraft, registered VH-OLM, descent below minimum safe altitude, 15 km south-west of Williamtown Aerodrome (Newcastle Airport), New South Wales. The ATSB found the flight crew had misjudged the aircraft's position relative to the aerodrome while conducting a night visual approach.{{cite web|url=https://www.atsb.gov.au/publications/investigation_reports/2019/aair/ao-2019-022|title=Descent below minimum safe altitude involving Saab 340, VH-OLM, 9 km south Williamtown Airport, New South Wales, on 28 March 2019|website=Australian Transport Safety Bureau|date=25 May 2020}}
• On 20 August 2019 a Regional Express, Saab Aircraft Company 340B, registration VH-ZLX, departed Adelaide, for a regular public transport flight to Port Lincoln, South Australia. During the post flight walk around, the first officer noted that the left main outboard landing gear tyre was deflated and that a piece of the wheel was missing. Ground support personnel at Adelaide Airport subsequently located the missing section of wheel on the runway strip. An area of fatigue cracking in the wheel. It was considered likely that the fatigue crack was present at the most recent maintenance visit, however, it had not been detected.{{cite web|url=https://www.atsb.gov.au/publications/investigation_reports/2019/aair/ao-2019-047|title=Landing gear wheel failure involving Saab 340, VH-ZLX, Adelaide Airport, South Australia, on 20 August 2019|website=Australian Transport Safety Bureau|date=26 August 2020}}
• 6 July 2021, a Saab 340B aircraft, registered VH-ZLJ, departed Perth Airport for a scheduled passenger flight to Albany, Western Australia. At about 1623, while climbing through an altitude of 6,000 ft, and before entering icing conditions, the crew activated the engine anti-ice and wing de-ice systems. Shortly afterwards, caution lights illuminated indicating a fault in the de-ice system. After levelling off at 7,000 ft, the crew actioned the relevant abnormal checklist, but the caution lights remained on. In response, the flight crew requested a descent to 5,000 ft to exit icing conditions and decided to return to Perth. ATC instructed the crew to make a right turn. About 20 seconds after beginning the turn, the aircraft’s aerodynamic stall warning stick shakers activated. The first officer initiated the stall recovery procedure before the captain took control as pilot flying to complete the recovery. The aircraft returned to Perth, landing at 1642.{{cite web|url=https://www.atsb.gov.au/publications/investigation_reports/2021/aair/ao-2021-027|title=Stick shaker activation involving Saab 340B, VH-ZLJ, 30.7 km south-west of Perth Airport, Western Australia, on 6 July 2021|website=Australian Transport Safety Bureau|date=9 March 2022}}
• 5 April 2022, a Regional Express SAAB 340B aircraft, registered VH-ZRK, was being prepared for an air transport flight from Melbourne, Victoria to King Island, Tasmania. The scheduled departure time was 1445 local time. Interrupted engine start and evacuation. Two passengers received minor injuries during the evacuation.{{cite web|url=https://www.atsb.gov.au/publications/investigation_reports/2022/aair/ao-2022-019|title=Interrupted engine start and evacuation involving SAAB 340B, VH-ZRK, at Melbourne Airport, Victoria, on 5 April 2022|website=Australian Transport Safety Bureau}}
• 4 November 2022, rejected take-off involving SAAB 340, VH-ZRC, at Flinders Island Airport, Tasmania. During the take-off roll, the aircraft veered to the left and the crew detected abnormal airspeed indications before rejecting the take-off, resulting in four landing gear tyres deflating.{{cite web|url=https://www.atsb.gov.au/publications/investigation_reports/2024/report/ao-2022-054|title=Rejected take-off involving SAAB 340, VH-ZRC, Flinders Island Airport, Tasmania, 4 November 2022|website=Australian Transport Safety Bureau|date=17 May 2023}}
• 21 December 2022, SAAB 340B aircraft, registered VH-RXE, that occurred about 140 km from Perth, Western Australia. During cruise, the no. 2 engine failed, and the crew returned the aircraft to Perth.{{cite web|url=https://www.atsb.gov.au/publications/investigation_reports/2024/report/ao-2022-066|title=Engine failure or malfunction involving Saab 340B, VH-RXE, 140 km south of Perth, Western Australia, on 21 December 2022|website=Australian Transport Safety Bureau}}

File:Australian Airline Pilot Academy.jpg]]

File:Australian Airline Pilot Academy (VH-XEJ) Piper PA-28-161 Cherokee Warrior III taxiing Wagga Wagga Airport.jpg

File:Regional Express Saab 340 aircraft at AAPA.jpg

In November 2007, Regional Express Airlines and Mangalore Airport Pty Limited created a joint venture pilot academy called the Civil Aviation Training Academy, based at Mangalore Airport in Victoria.{{cite web | title = Rex and Mangalore Airport Announce Creation of Pilot Academy | publisher = Regional Express | date = 2007-11-01 | url = http://www.regionalexpress.com/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=157&page=MC | access-date = 2009-02-18 | archive-date = 23 July 2008 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080723191058/https://www.regionalexpress.com/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=157&page=MC | url-status = dead }} In April 2008, Regional Express Airlines fully acquired the Civil Aviation Training Academy and it was renamed to Australian Airline Pilot Academy.{{cite web | title = Rex fully acquires pilot training academy | publisher = Regional Express | date = 2008-05-21 | url = http://www.regionalexpress.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=177&page=MC | access-date = 2009-02-18 | archive-date = 16 September 2009 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090916120957/http://regionalexpress.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=177&page=MC | url-status = live }}

On 18 February 2009, Regional Express Airlines announced that the Australian Airline Pilot Academy (AAPA) would be relocated from Mangalore Airport to Wagga Wagga Airport in partnership with the City of Wagga Wagga starting in April 2009.{{cite news | title = REX to relocate pilot academy | work = News Limited | publisher = Weekly Times Now | date = 2009-02-18 | url = http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/article/2009/02/18/54931_latest-news.html | access-date = 2009-02-18 | archive-date = 15 March 2009 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090315002934/http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/article/2009/02/18/54931_latest-news.html | url-status = live }}{{cite web | title = REX t construct pilot academy at Wagga Wagga | publisher = Regional Express | date = 2009-02-18 | url = http://www.regionalexpress.com.au/corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=202&page=MC | access-date = 2009-02-18 | archive-date = 26 October 2009 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20091026075949/http://www.regionalexpress.com.au//corp_info/ShowNews.aspx?nid=202&page=MC | url-status = live }}

On 27 May 2010, the AAPA campus at Wagga Wagga Airport was officially opened by Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Anthony Albanese.{{cite news|title=Reaching for the sky|url=http://www.dailyadvertiser.com.au/news/local/news/general/reaching-for-the-sky/1842757.aspx|access-date=28 May 2010|newspaper=The Daily Advertiser|date=28 May 2010|archive-date=1 June 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100601045911/http://www.dailyadvertiser.com.au/news/local/news/general/reaching-for-the-sky/1842757.aspx|url-status=live}}

On 19 November 2019, AAPA purchased ST Aerospace Academy Australia at Ballarat Airport in Victoria, taking it over as a second campus.{{cite news|title=More pilots will be trained in Ballarat after Regional Express extends its training academy|url=https://www.thecourier.com.au/story/6500614/regional-express-academy-pilots-to-train-from-ballarat-base/|access-date=11 February 2021|newspaper=The Courier|date=19 November 2019|archive-date=5 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220305083432/https://www.thecourier.com.au/story/6500614/regional-express-academy-pilots-to-train-from-ballarat-base/|url-status=live}}

In addition to training aircraft, the flight school has five flight simulators, including a full motion Saab 340 simulator. There is also one retired Saab 340B at Wagga Wagga used as a training aid.

On 3 November 2024, it was confirmed that AAPA was up for sale after Rex Airlines went into administration in July 2024. It was reported that there was interest from over 40 parties based both domestically and internationally.

{{As of|2021|12}}, the Australian Airline Pilot Academy operates the following aircraft:{{cite web|url=http://www.aapa.net.au/fleet-aircraft.html|title=Aircraft fleet|publisher=Australian Airline Pilot Academy|accessdate=2021-12-10|archive-date=10 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211210004121/http://www.aapa.net.au/fleet-aircraft.html|url-status=live}}

• List of airlines of Australia

{{reflist}}

{{refbegin}}

• Thorn, Jim. "Interview – Michael Jones, CEO Regional Express". Australian Aviation magazine, No. 187, September 2002, pp. 30–34. Aerospace Publications Pty. Ltd. ISSN 0813-0876

{{refend}}

{{commons category-inline|Rex Airlines}}

{{Airlines of Australia}}

{{Regional Aviation Association of Australia}}

{{Portalbar|Australia|Aviation}}

Category:Airlines of Australia

Category:Airlines established in 2002

Category:Australian companies established in 2002

Category:Regional Aviation Association of Australia

Category:Companies based in Sydney