Jake Nelson

In a press release, Sharp, which operates 23 Metroliner turboprop aircraft servicing five states, said the government should offer support to Rex, but “only on routes that Rex is the sole operator”.

The federal government says the airport is now 80 per cent complete, with internal works such as lounges, departure areas and retail space able to proceed in the weatherproof building. The roof also features more than 6,000 solar panels to help power the airport.

Australian Aviation has verified that domestic bookings past 30 July appear to be unavailable, while tickets for regional flights served by the airline’s Saab 340 fleet are still on sale. The Australian Financial Review has reported Ernst & Young (EY) is likely to be appointed as an administrator.

The carrier, which is also withdrawing from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), said “many of the levers” it needs to meet its target, including the ability to acquire new aircraft, availability and affordability of alternative fuels, and regulatory and policy support, are out of its hands.

Speaking to ABC News Breakfast on Tuesday, Transport Minister Catherine King said she is ready to “see whether there’s any assistance or anything the Government needs to do” to help Rex, but did not go into detail.

Lawyers for the big four accounting firm, which The Australian reported over the weekend had been called in to examine the airline’s finances, said in a letter seen by The Australian Financial Review that Deloitte would not accept any potential appointment as voluntary administrator.