Australia’s largest independent regional airline, Regional Express (Rex) is to commence services linking Grafton and Taree with Sydney commencing Sunday 25 February 2007.
Rex was awarded the licence to operate the service by the New South Wales Ministry of Transport today.
“Rex appreciates the opportunity to bring our service to the Grafton and Taree communities,” Geoff Breust, Rex’s Managing Director said.
“Rex will operate a total of 36 flights each week on a combined route to both Grafton and Taree from Sydney. Flights will be conducted with our 34 seat Saab 340 aircraft and the schedule is designed to provide both a day return business schedule and times suitable for leisure travel. The targeted commencement date is 25 February.
“Fully inclusive fares will start from $109.00 for Taree and $129.00 for Grafton.
“While a Grafton and Taree are marginal routes in terms of Rex’s operations, we felt compelled to do something for these regional cities given the importance of air travel for them. A deciding factor for us was the strong commitment by both the Clarence Valley Council and Greater Taree City Council to co-invest in a partnership arrangement which has proven so successful in many of the ports that we serve.
“Another major factor in our decision to apply was the Federal Government’s active assistance for regional airline services through the Enroute Charges Rebate Scheme which reduces the cost of certain air navigation charges for various regional operators. This provides a chance for marginal communities to have access to a sustainable, quality air service at considerably more affordable fares.
“This very unique partnership of the Federal Government, NSW Government and the local councils with Rex is what has given birth to a new era of air service for both Grafton and Taree. We are confident that Rex will be able to grow these two routes to strong profitability as we have done so elsewhere on our network. This can serve as the model for the future of regional aviation in the numerous smaller communities that do not have a viable air service.
Flight schedule and fare details are being loaded and reservations for travel are available now. Bookings may be made via the travel agency network, via Rex’s Customer Contact Centre on 13 17 13 or online at www.rex.com.au. All customers must note that the service requires CASA approval before operations may commence. A special request has been put through to fast track the approval.
“While Regional Express is confident it can provide viable and sustainable services on these routes, it will require the support of business, government and leisure air travellers in the region. On that note I am sure the community will rally with that support,” Mr Breust said.
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