{
  "id": 14371714,
  "title": "Rex grounds two routes 10 months after $60m rescue package",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/14/rex-grounds-two-routes-10-months-after-60m-rescue-package",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-10-14T05:00:20.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News AU",
    "slug": "abc-news-au",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-10-14/rex-suspends-orange-port-macquarie-services/107260016"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Regional Express (Rex) has announced the indefinite suspension of its flights to Orange and Port Macquarie, both in New South Wales, ten months after receiving a $60 million rescue package. The carrier, recently acquired by US-based Air T, cited high fuel prices and low demand as reasons for the decision. Independent MP Andrew Gee expressed shock at the move, calling it a \"real shock\" and \"a slap in the face\" for the region. Port Macquarie Mayor Adam Roberts highlighted the economic impact on the area's $700 million annual visitor economy. Both mayors emphasized the vital role air travel plays in their communities. Rex stated it would monitor fuel prices and consider reinstating the routes if they become commercially viable. Federal Transport Minister Catherine King acknowledged the decision would be disappointing for many, noting Air T's regional commitments to maintain Rex's services. Rex assured affected customers would receive refunds or re-bookings.",
  "summary": "Less than a year after Rex was sold with the aid of a federal government rescue package, the embattled airline has suspended services to Orange and Port Macquarie.",
  "key_points": [
    "Regional Express suspends flights to Orange and Port Macquarie indefinitely",
    "High fuel prices and low demand cited as reasons for route closure",
    "Mayors stress air travel's economic importance to regional communities"
  ],
  "editors_take": "Suspending these regional routes despite recent government funding highlights the fragility of regional aviation connectivity when rising operating costs collide with insufficient passenger demand in smaller communities.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}