A media release yesterday by Rex was not released to the ASX and...

A media release yesterday by Rex was not released to the ASX and so does not appear in the ASX news library. It is only on the Rex website.

There are some interesting developments, given the fractious nature of Qantas at this time, and the jockeying and positioning around the demise of Brindabella and its routes.

The Government transport department is very tardy with their temporary approvals, which has created a new set of problems. Moree was initially allocated to Rex, but then that was overruled to a temporary approval for Qantas until 31st March. The people of Moree rallied strongly behind Qantas and made it clear they did not want Rex. One wonders if the people who demonstrated and petitioned knew what they were doing, because Rex is profitable, solvent and reliable, and Qantas is, well, who knows? Be careful what you wish for.

The position now is that Qantas has the licence for the route until 31st March. Rex have now formally announced that they will no longer apply for the route, so the good people of Moree had better hope that Qantas decides to apply for the route beyond 31st March. If they don't Moree will have no air service.

Similarly the NSW Government transport authority has offered Rex a temporary licence to fly to Mudgee and Cobar for only two months. Rex has declined the offer.

Who would want to run an airline?