Rex gets CASA nod to fly 737s on Golden Triangle
Rex has passed the final regulatory hurdle in its bid to operate capital city routes after CASA cleared the airline to fly its new fleet of 737s.
The airline also confirmed it would be offering work to employees made redundant by its rivals.
Australian Aviation previously reported how the now-famous first ex-Virgin 737 leased to Rex had been flying back and forth between Sydney and Melbourne, likely in preparation for its proving flight. It comes after Rex finally signed off on a $150 million investment that will allow it to lease an initial six 737s to fly the so-called Golden Triangle from 1 March.
On Wednesday, the business revealed it has now acquired a “High Capacity Air Operator’s Certificate”, which allows it to fly aircraft with more than 38 seats or weighing more than 4,200 kilograms. Its current fleet of 60 Saab 340s carry slightly fewer passengers.
Rex used the good news to double-down on its plans to operate as a mid-market hybrid.
“Travellers for the first time do not have to choose between cheap fares with minimal service or more reliable service with premium pricing,” the business said in a statement. “Just as it has done for the last 70 years through its founding airlines, Rex will provide domestic travellers with a safe and reliable yet affordable air service with its trademark country hospitality.”
Rex’s executive chairman, Lim Kim Hai, praised CASA and its outgoing chief executive, Shane Carmody, for granting the certificate so quickly.
https://australianaviation.com.au/20...lden-triangle/