Media release – Regional Express Airlines, 8 June 2023

HOBART, HERE WE COME!

Hobart is poised to enjoy much cheaper airfares and will become Rex’s fourth Tasmanian destination. The airline today announced daily flights between Melbourne and Hobart will begin on 17 August. Rex already operates regular flights to the north west Tasmanian cities of Burnie and Devonport while also flying to King Island.

The airline’s Deputy Chairman, the Hon John Sharp AM, unveiled details of the new route in Hobart this morning. He was joined by the Tasmanian Premier and Minister for Tourism, the Hon Jeremy Rockliff MP, the CEO of Hobart Airport, Norris Carter and Sarah Clark, CEO of Tourism Tasmania.

Hobart is the second new destination Rex has announced in recent days, as it added two more Boeing 737s to its fleet. Last week the airline said it would begin direct Adelaide-Sydney flights on 29 June.

The flight schedule will be perfect for holiday-makers with the flights from Melbourne departing at 12.15 pm and arriving in Hobart at 1.30 pm. The return Hobart-Melbourne service will take off at 2.15 pm and touch down in Melbourne 75 minutes later. This schedule will provide good connections for flights to and from Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane.

From just $79* one way, travellers will enjoy all the perks of full service which include baggage allowance and a snack on board. This is less than half the cost of the cheapest Qantas fare at $180. Business Class will be available from $349, more than $500 cheaper than a comparable Qantas fare at $897.

“Hobart is one of the world’s greatest tourist destinations which we are delighted to add to our network,” Mr Sharp said. “Our long-standing 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.” “Our new service will provide passengers with affordable fares delivered with Rex’s trademark country hospitality and reliability.”

Premier Rockliff said the service will provide even more options for travel for both 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,” the Premier said.