Jake Nelson

In its application to the competition watchdog, Virgin requested interim authorisation for the flights by November 2024 for a launch in June 2025, to coincide with the peak northern summer period as well as major events like the 2025 British and Irish Lions rugby tour.

The plane was originally expected to arrive in the country this month to help launch Skytrans’ wet-leasing business after its acquisition earlier this year by global aviation firm Avia Solutions Group.

The Australian Federal Police is investigating the incident but said there is no threat to the community.

In the Australian Airports Association’s (AAA) submission to the government’s consultation paper, AAA head of policy and advocacy Natalie Heazlewood also warned that the scheme could see its costs passed on to consumers.

Skytrans CEO Alan Milne said his “gut feeling” is that the age of Rex’s Saab 340B turboprops – which are around 30 years old on average – could make it tougher for administrator EY Australia to sell the airline.

According to anonymous sources cited in The Australian Financial Review, the company – owned by Japan Post – is expected to sign a deal in coming days after reaching an agreement on terms.