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.

The subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, which sustains and maintains the Australian Defence Force’s MH-60R Seahawk helicopter fleet, is expected to provide another 100 positions of growth by 2028, including 60 roles in maintenance.

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.