Rex Cleared for Takeoff Under New Owner Air T

The future of Regional Express Holdings Limited (Rex) has been secured, with creditors voting in favour of a Deed of Company Arrangement (DOCA) proposed by US-based Air T at the second meeting of Rex creditors.

The announcement was made by Samuel Freeman, Justin Walsh and Adam Nikitins of EY Parthenon, who have acted as Joint and Several Voluntary Administrators for the Rex Group since the airline entered administration.

Once the DOCA is signed and its conditions are satisfied, Rex will officially exit administration and transition to new ownership under Air T. The change of operational control and legal ownership is expected to be completed before mid-December 2025.

The acquisition covers Rex’s core operations, including its regional airline servicing 54 airports across Australia using Saab 340 aircraft, pilot training school The Australian Airline Pilots Academy (AAPA), aviation service provider Australian Aero Propeller Maintenance (AAPM), and the Rex Flyer frequent flyer program.

EY Parthenon Partner Sam Freeman said the DOCA represents a strong outcome for all parties. “The Deed of Company Arrangement provides a superior result for stakeholders, ensuring ongoing employment for Rex Group staff, continued trading with suppliers, and the preservation of vital regional air services connecting communities across Australia.”

Freeman also expressed appreciation for the continued backing from employees, passengers, suppliers, and the Australian Government throughout the 15-month voluntary administration process.

“We thank all staff who have maintained regular passenger operations, customers who remained loyal, suppliers who continued their support, and the Government for its vital assistance in achieving this positive outcome,” he said.

However, creditors voted to place Rex Airlines Pty Ltd — the entity responsible for the airline’s Boeing 737 capital city network — into liquidation. This arm of the business was not included in the Air T DOCA proposal.