The first images have been released of the specially constructed A350-1000ULR, which is slated for delivery in late 2026 ahead of the launch of non-stop flights from the east coast to London and New York in 2027.
The airline’s first BETA ALIA CX300, N401NZ, which arrived in the country last month, has begun an “intensive proving program” from its base at Hamilton Airport before being sent south to Wellington to fly Cook Strait crossings to Blenheim by the end of January.
Commencing in March 2026, flights from the Sunshine Coast to Denpasar will operate three times per week on Jetstar’s A321neo LR fleet, adding more than 70,000 seats per year, and will connect onwards to Singapore.
In a statement, the peak body for regional aviation welcomed the government’s “commitment to regional Australia”, but called on it to “support all Australian regional airline operators, not just Rex”. It comes as Transport Minister Catherine King announced financial aid for Air T’s purchase of Rex.
Under the arrangements, Rex’s debt will be restructured, with $90 million owed to the government set to be carried forward in a profit-sharing arrangement, while another $60 million loan will be extended to help with engine care and maintenance in bringing more Saab 340Bs back into service.
In their report released on Monday night, the voluntary administrators from EY Australia recommended the approval of the Air T deal despite the lack of return to ordinary unsecured creditors, saying it would nonetheless achieve a better outcome than Rex Group being wound up.