Regional Express (Rex) today announced that it will commence* Newcastle to Sydney and Newcastle to Ballina / Byron services 7 days a week from Sunday, 30 October 2011.
Rex will provide 3 return services between Newcastle and Sydney Monday to Friday on a schedule that is convenient for the business traveller wanting to make a day-return trip as well as those needing to connect on to Rex’s vast NSW regional network as well as other domestic/international flights. Convenient Saturday and Sunday flights are also provided (see schedule below) making a total of 38 weekly flights between Newcastle and Sydney.
Rex will also commence a new daily return service between Newcastle and Ballina / Byron Bay. A promotional fully-inclusive one-way web fare of $99.00 for both Newcastle to Sydney and Newcastle to Ballina will be available from service commencement till Feb 2012.
Rex sees substantial growth opportunity between Newcastle and Sydney as the route used to have 100,000 passengers annually, a far cry from today's 30,000. Rex has been consistently rated the best regional airline in the world and is confident that its proven model of affordable airfares, reliable service and old-fashion country hospitality would once again bring significant renewed interest in air travel on the route.
Newcastle Airport CEO Paul Hughes said, “These services are very welcome and complement our current operations. We expect the daily service to new-destination Ballina, and the three-times daily service to Sydney to add an additional 92,000 seats to and from Newcastle annually which will provide more options for both leisure and corporate travellers.”
“As Newcastle Airport continues to grow, the real winners will be the travelling public. I anticipate that the introduction of a new airline will stimulate competition and provide a real alternative to driving.”
“The Hunter will benefit from Rex’s Sydney hub, as it offers connections to the airline’s extensive regional network.”
“We are excited to welcome Rex to our fold and look forward to the Hunter supporting their services.”
“Newcastle Airport is currently one of Australia’s fastest growing airports. The impact of this new airline and new destination will not only provide passengers with greater choice, but have a significant and positive impact on the local economy,” Mr Hughes said.
*Commencement of the Rex service is subject to regulatory approval. Reservations can be made via the internet (www.rex.com.au), phone (13 17 13) or your local travel agent.