Rex to increase Orange-Sydney operations

Regional Express (Rex) announced (04-Jan-2018) plans to increase weekday service between Orange and Sydney from four to five return frequencies from 29-Jan-2018. The increase will see a total of 58 weekly frequencies between Orange and Sydney which represents almost 18,000 additional seats p/a. Rex GM network strategy and sales Warrick Lodge stated: "The increased services, as well as the allocation of scarce Sydney Airport slots that go with it, represent a significant commitment by Rex to the Orange community, especially at a time when the whole of Australia is facing a massive pilot shortage". He added: "The additional services will start on 29-Jan-2018 after the holiday season. This decision is not without its risk as currently there are only 55,000 annual passengers for the 100,000 annual seats that will be available". Rex stated it would begin negotiations with the Orange City Council to enter into a partnership agreement, noting: "A partnership with the correct framework would ensure that the additional services are sustainable and that fares could become lower while ensuring that the revenue to Council is maintained". [more - original PR]