A La Trobe University expert is available to comment on the collapse of Rex Airlines, particularly the impact on regional communities.
Senior Lecturer, Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management, La Trobe Business School
Contact: p.strickland@latrobe.edu.au, M: 0408834727
Dr Strickland can comment on the following:
- Financial and tourism impact to regional communities
- Reduced airline competition will increase prices
- Airlines such as Virgin will capitalise on Rex's routes
- Access to hospitals in major cities will become challenging for locals in regional and rural locations
The following can be attributed to Dr Strickland:
“The impact of the cost of living is taking its toll on companies which have little margins such as Bonza and Rex. Aviation fuel, plane maintenance and the cost of daily operations are all increasing, putting pressure on an industry that is still struggling after the COVID-19 pandemic. Simply charging a higher ticket price is not the solution long term.
“It is the Federal Government's responsibility to ensure essential services to regional communities but that does not necessarily extend to the aviation industry. Support packages are welcomed but not a long-term solution.
“The only way the aviation sector can guarantee services is if the government owns a controlling share of the airline.”
