Rex Airlines announced a reduced flight schedule between Parkes and Sydney from Sunday 29 October 2023 to Saturday 30 March 2024, due to the significant loss of pilots and aircraft engine supply chain disruptions.
Mayor of Parkes Shire Councillor Neil Westcott said following on from consultations with Rex, the extent of the Pilot and Engine shortage and its impact on the ongoing ability of Rex to maintain its current service schedule is understandable and hopes for a positive outcome going into the new year.
"The ability for Council to include Rex air services in its Parkes promotion is such a positive message for the economic and organic growth of our community. This service along with the incredible potential growth we see coming from our general community, existing major developments and business development in the Special Activation Precinct drives our confidence in the region," said Councillor Westcott.
"The promotion and support for Rex has and always will be in Council's growth plan communications to the community and businesses alike," he added.
Council continues its discussions with Rex during this period of reduced services to ensure that the communication lines remain strong. A meeting was held with Rex and the Mayors of Parkes, Forbes and Condobolin, hoping for Rex to review the midday flight, with negotiations for a more acceptable time slot to and from Sydney ongoing.
Rex has given undertakings that the scheduled flights for the Elvis festival will not change.
A review and decision is to be made in March 2024 regarding returning to the existing schedules.
