Rex Airlines Enters Administration, Faces Job Losses

Regional Express (Rex) has entered voluntary administration, grounding all Boeing 737 flights between major cities but continuing regional services with its Saab 340 fleet. Virgin Australia has stepped in to assist, rebooking affected passengers for free and exploring long-term collaborations to support regional routes. The administration has resulted in significant job losses, with estimates ranging from 610 to 850 positions. The Australian government and various state officials have expressed concern for the regional communities dependent on Rex, indicating potential support measures. Meanwhile, Rex's competitors, Qantas and Virgin, have committed to hiring some of the displaced employees. The situation has underscored the challenges faced by smaller airlines in a market dominated by larger carriers.