Regional Express (Rex) today announced that as a direct consequence of the record high oil price, the airline will increase its fuel surcharge by $3.00 (including GST) per sector effective on all sales from 13 May 2008. This will see Rex’s fuel surcharge increase from $33.00 to $36.00 per sector.
Rex General Manager, Network Strategy & Sales, Mr Warrick Lodge said, “Oil prices have risen by another 10% since the last time we raised the fuel levy and are now at historic highs above USD120 a barrel. In addition, the refining margins have also increased presenting a double blow for airline fuel.”
“Rex recognises the significant impact of rising fuel prices, particularly to regional Australia and we have done much during the last five years to lower our average ticket prices. Even with the fuel levy, our average ticket price remains lower than it was 5 years ago. In fact, it is almost cheaper to take a Rex flight than to drive when all of the motorists’ operating costs are considered, not to mention the significant time savings associated with flying,” Mr Lodge said.
The fuel surcharge increase is also applicable to Rex’s subsidiary airline, Air Link.
Rex is Australia’s largest independent regional airline operating a fleet of 38 Saab 340 aircraft on more than 1,200 flights weekly to 23 destinations from Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. The Rex Group comprises Regional Express, air freight and charter operator Pel-Air Aviation and Dubbo based regional airline Air Link, as well as the pilot academy Australian Airline Pilot Academy.
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