Rex airlines to introduce Hobart > Melbourne route, $79 fares
A regional airline is promising to shake up the Tasmanian travel market, introducing daily flights between Hobart and a popular mainland city with cheaper fares than major carriers. DETAILS >>
Tasmania
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Rex airlines is promising to shake up the Tasmanian travel market, announcing on Thursday it will introduce daily flights between Melbourne and Hobart with cheaper airfares than major carriers, starting at $79 one-way.
Flights between Melbourne and Hobart will begin on August 17, with Rex’s expansion to the state capital now the fourth Tasmanian destination for the airline. Rex also operates regular flights out of Burnie and Devonport, while also flying to King Island.
The new flight schedule will depart Melbourne at 12.15pm and arrive in Hobart at 1.30pm. The return Hobart-Melbourne service will take off at 2.15pm and touch down in Melbourne 75 minutes later.
Rex Deputy Chairman John Sharp said he was excited by the new service.
“Hobart is one of the world’s greatest tourist destinations which we are delighted to add to our
network,” Mr Sharp said.
“Our longstanding commitment to Tasmania spans more than 40 years through our regional
airline services. For too long, Hobart has had to endure sky-high airfares because of capacity
constraints and price gouging by our competitors.”
Mr Sharp said with one-way fares starting from $79, travellers would enjoy full cabin service which included baggage allowance, seat selection and a snack on board. Business class tickets will be available from $349.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the service would provide more travel options for Tasmanians and visitors.
“This is yet another sign of confidence in our tourism industry that has bounced back from the
pandemic and is once again firing on all cylinders,” Mr Rockliff said.
“Victoria is our largest visitor market, and this gives even more options for visitors to come down to Tasmania.”
Hobart Airport CEO Norris Carter said he was delighted to welcome Rex to Hobart.
“This new service gives more choice for travellers flying between Melbourne and Hobart, and
provides an additional midafternoon schedule option arriving into Melbourne in time for dinner,” he said.
Mr Carter said Rex’s move into Hobart was another reason for Hobart Airport’s planned investment in expanding the terminal.
Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus said she was pleased to see Rex adding another capital
city connection from Melbourne.
“Melbourne Airport is proud to be the largest hub on Rex’s jet network and we are excited to
have Hobart added to the list of destinations,” Ms Argus said.
Rex is Australia’s largest independent regional and domestic airline operating a fleet of 61 Saab 340 and 7 Boeing 737-800NG aircraft to 58 destinations throughout all states in Australia.
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