Regional Express (Rex) has been ranked the world’s top performing regional airline by the prestigious Aviation Week and Space Technology (AWST) for the second consecutive year, beating American giants Republic Airways, SkyWest and Pinnacle Airlines.
The ranking was conducted on all publicly traded airlines in the world based on 19 financial ratios compiled over a period of 10 years. This year’s AWST rankings identify managers who have best positioned their companies for recovery from last year’s global recession and volatility in fuel prices.
Rex executive chairman Lim Kim Hai said Australia could be proud that its airlines stand amongst the world’s most financially sound.
“In addition to Rex’s top position, Qantas too obtained an outstanding fifth in the legacy carrier category while Virgin Blue came in a respectable 15th in the low cost carrier category,” he said.
Mr Lim congratulated the staff and management of Rex for their dedicated service and leadership.
The future of Rex at Sydney Airport is still in doubt, with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission yet to decide whether Sydney Airport Corporation will be allowed to increase fees. Rex says an increase would force them out of Sydney Airport, meaning Griffith passengers would have to fly into Bankstown Airport. This would complicate travel for passengers catching connecting flights.
