What a difference a few weeks makes....

In our last report, we spoke of the difficulties new entrants to the Australian airline market face, and how it almost always ends in tears. With startup LCC Bonza Air exiting the scene earlier this year, we were full of praise for Regional Express (Rex), who seemed at least on the surface of things to really be kicking some goals.

So imagine our surprise when it was announced on July 30th that Rex had been placed into voluntary administration; its 737 fleet grounded and their associated flights cancelled. It was news that blindsides many in the industry and media alike, and appears to have come in the wake of a board level stoush that's left the carrier starved of funding.  

News out today suggests Rex's deficit may be as high at $A500million.  

Affected passengers (including Steve and his wife) were re-booked on Virgin Australia flights - a process which has so far been flawless, with VA taking leases on three of Rex's 10 737-800's (jets which ironically had come from VA in the first place) to bolster capacity.

Rex's regional SAAB 340 services remain operational at present, as administrators Ernst & Young seek to find a buyer for the airline.

In defence news, the USAF have parked a handful of F-22's at RAAF Base Williamtown in New South Wales, allowing joint training exercises with local F-35A's from 3SQN & 77SQN. Two of these Hickam based Raptors will be making their way north to Queensland for the upcoming Pacific Airshow Gold Coast. Raptors are not often seen in this part of the world, so it'll be a treat to see them perform at the event.

And speaking of the Pacific Airshow Gold Coast, Steve & Grant will be there for all the action, along with the Airplane Geeks' very own Brian Coleman. Be sure to let us know if you'll be there too!