Rex to suspend loss making Taree-Sydney route over local council decision on airport improvements

Regional Express (Rex) announced (15-Dec-2017) plans to end Taree-Sydney service, effective 27-Jan-2018. Services between Newcastle and Sydney, shared with Taree, will continue to operate as normal with 36 weekly frequencies. Rex GM network strategy and sales Warrick Lodge said the Taree route is "loss making" and the "impetus to withdraw from the route originated" with a refusal by the Mid Coast Council to supply a three phase power outlet to the airport apron. Mr Lodge said this required investment of less than AUD1000 (USD765) and Rex was prepared to invest AUD23,000 (USD17,590) for a new three phase ground power unit that would "improve operating efficiencies and reliability on the route". Mr Lodge added the carrier "was dismayed by the decision of the Mid Coast Council to hold back key services for the primary user of Taree airport given that Council had spent in excess of $4.2M on airport upgrades over the previous three years without consulting with Rex to understand its needs". [more - original PR]