Member for Albany Scott Leary MLA has welcomed the announcement that Regional Express Airlines (Rex) has secured a buyer, describing it as an important step toward restoring reliable air travel for Albany residents.
Mr Leary said the sale to US-based aviation company Air T offered hope for these communities who have endured years of unreliable flight services and uncertainty about the airline’s future.
“This announcement brings welcome relief for regional families, businesses and patients who depend on Rex for essential travel,” Mr Leary said.
“The past year has exposed how fragile our regional air links can be when contracts are mismanaged and accountability is lacking.
“The sale and recapitalisation of Rex provides an opportunity to reset and rebuild trust with regional Western Australians.”
Mr Leary said it was now crucial that the Cook Labor Government worked closely with the new owners to ensure regional air services are both reliable and affordable.
“This sale cannot simply be a change of ownership on paper — it must deliver meaningful improvements for passengers,” he said.
“The Government must play its part by ensuring future service agreements deliver on their promises and that regional communities are no longer left stranded by poor performance.”
Mr Leary said the Nationals would continue to advocate for transparency and accountability in regional air services.
“Regional Western Australians deserve dependable connections to the city and beyond.
“We’ll continue to hold the Government to account to make sure this transition leads to a stronger, more reliable service for our regions,” he said.