Rex Airlines, also known as Regional Express, is Australia's largest independent regional and domestic airline. Established in 2002 from the merger of Hazelton and Kendell Airlines, Rex has grown to serve over 60 destinations across Australia. The airline operates a mixed fleet of Saab 340 turboprops and Boeing 737-800NG jets, providing essential connectivity between regional centers and major cities
Services
- Regional Connectivity : Rex offers extensive air services connecting regional centers with capital cities, ensuring vital links for regional communities.
- Affordable Fares : The airline focuses on keeping air travel affordable by minimizing wastages and inefficiencies, benefiting passengers with competitive pricing.
- On-time Performance : Rex prides itself on punctuality, understanding that passengers value their time and rely on the airline for timely arrivals and departures.
- Rex Lounges : Available at major airports like Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide, these lounges provide comfortable amenities for travelers.
- Frequent Flyer Program : Rex Flyer loyalty program offers various rewards, enhancing the travel experience for frequent passengers.
Expriences
- Paul Legate : Highlighted the effective service recovery during a technical issue on a multi-leg milk run flight, praising the crew's handling of the situation and the provision of complimentary amenities.
- Kirstin M : Appreciated the prompt and attentive customer service when she forgot her laptop at the Adelaide airport, which was safely returned upon her request.
- Paul B : Commended Rex for its punctuality and excellent cabin crew service during his multiple flights with the airline, emphasizing the difference in service quality compared to other carriers.
Interesting Facts
- Origins : Rex was formed from the ashes of the Ansett Group's collapse in 2002, combining Hazelton and Kendell Airlines.
- Domestic Expansion : Despite the pandemic's impact, Rex began domestic jet operations in 2021, starting with the Sydney-Melbourne-Brisbane route.
- Regional Focus : Rex's commitment to regional Australia is reflected in its co-investments with local communities to support marginal routes.
- Fleet : The airline operates a diverse fleet including 61 Saab 340 and 7 Boeing 737-800NG aircraft (Rex Airlines).
- Pilot Academy : Rex operates the Australian Airline Pilot Academy in Wagga Wagga, NSW, and Ballarat, VIC, training the next generation of pilots.
Frequent Flyers
- Paul Legate : A frequent traveler, Paul praised Rex for its excellent service recovery during a technical issue on a multi-leg flight. The crew managed the situation efficiently, providing updates, meals, and complimentary services.
- Kirstin M : She appreciated Rex's prompt and attentive service when she left her laptop at the Adelaide airport. Rex staff ensured its safe return, demonstrating their commitment to customer care.
- Paul B : Regularly flying with Rex, Paul commended the airline for its punctuality and exceptional cabin crew service, noting it as a model for other carriers.
Myths
- Budget Airline Misconception : Often perceived as a budget airline, Rex actually offers comprehensive services including lounges and a frequent flyer program.
- Regional Only : While rooted in regional service, Rex now also operates significant domestic routes between major cities.
Offbeat Destinations
- Mount Isa : Known for its mining industry, providing crucial air service for local workers.
- Broken Hill : A historic mining town with rich cultural heritage.
- Birdsville : Famous for the Birdsville Races, attracting visitors to this remote area.
- Mornington Island : Offering connections to this remote Aboriginal community.
- Coober Pedy : The opal mining capital, providing essential connectivity.
- Karumba : A small fishing town important for regional tourism.
- Ceduna : Gateway to the Eyre Peninsula, known for fishing and oyster farming.
- Hughenden : Access point for dinosaur fossil sites and natural attractions.
- Cunnamulla : Serving remote communities with vital air links.
- Doomadgee : Supporting indigenous communities with crucial transport links
Useful Resources
Awards
- Best Regional Airline Australia & Pacific (2023) : Awarded by Skytrax, this accolade highlights Rex's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction across its regional network.
- Airline of the Year (2022 & 2023) : Recognized at the Australian Aviation Awards, Rex was honored for its resilience, adaptability, and innovation during challenging times, particularly during the pandemic.
- Safety Innovator of the Year (2023) : Also part of the Australian Aviation Awards, this category acknowledged Rex's advancements in safety protocols and procedures.
- Best Cabin Service in the South Pacific (2024) : Awarded by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), this award celebrates Rex's outstanding cabin crew service and warm hospitality.