Regional Express (Rex) is set to expand its presence in Western Australia in 2018 after being announced as the preferred tenderer for a state government regulated air route.
The WA Department of Transport said it had nominated Rex as the preferred airline for Perth-Canarvon-Monkey Mia services.
The route is currently operated by Skippers Aviation, with the deed of arrangement set to expire on July 1 2018.
The WA Department of Transport said a five-year deed of agreement with the State Government was expected to be signed in early 2018, subject to successful negotiations. Details of flight schedules and air fares would be announced after the deed of agreement was signed.
Rex said in a statement it “cannot release any further information until the deed of agreement is finalised”.
Although Skippers Aviation will no longer operate Perth-Canarvon-Monkey Mia services, it has retained the Perth-Northern Goldfields route, which covers Laverton, Leonora, Meekatharra, Mt Magnet and Wiluna.
WA Department of Transport executive director for transport strategy and reform Peter Ryan said the two preferred airlines had a good track record in providing aviation services in WA.
“The Carnarvon/Monkey Mia and the Northern Goldfields air routes are regulated by the State Government to ensure efficient, effective and regular air services occur on these routes,” Ryan said.
“Once appointed, the airlines operating on the regulated air routes must meet a range of a requirements set by government, including the provision of regular route statistics and engagement with local communities and stakeholders to ensure they are meeting community needs and government expectations.”
Rex began flying in WA in February 2016, when it commenced flights from Perth to Albany and Esperance with Saab 340 equipment under a five-year deed of agreement with the State Government.
