Regional Express

Regional Express, commonly known as Rex, is Australia's largest independent regional airline, operating scheduled passenger services to communities across New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Queensland, and Western Australia. Founded in 2002, Rex was formed following the collapse of Ansett Australia and the subsequent acquisition of Hazelton Airlines and Kendell Airlines assets. The airline has historically focused on thin regional routes that larger carriers typically avoid, playing a vital role in connecting remote and rural communities to major cities. In 2021, Rex expanded significantly by launching jet services on major domestic trunk routes between Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide, competing directly with Qantas and Virgin Australia. However, Rex entered voluntary administration in July 2024, facing financial difficulties partly attributed to the competitive pressures of its mainline jet operations expansion. The airline's regional operations continued during administration, underscoring its essential role in Australian regional connectivity.