Camden Haven impacted as Rex suspends Port Macquarie flights

THE sky-high cost of aviation fuel and a plummeting demand for seats has been given as the reason Rex Airlines will “indefinitely suspend” its Sydney to Port Macquarie air service from 25 October.

The decision will have a region-wide economic impact, according to Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce president, Luke Hadfield.

“While these flights operate out of Port Macquarie, their importance extends beyond Port itself,” Mr Hadfield said.

“The Camden Haven is part of the wider regional economy, and decisions that impact Port Macquarie inevitably have flow-on effects for our businesses and community.

“Reliable and accessible air services are an important part of supporting our visitor economy. Reduced flight options can make our region less attractive to potential visitors, particularly those travelling from metropolitan areas or interstate who rely on connecting flights.”

Beyond tourism, air connectivity plays an important role in economic development.

“Businesses rely on these connections to attract investment, engage with clients and suppliers, and access opportunities outside our region,” Mr Hadfield added.

“We should be looking at ways to strengthen regional connectivity, not see it diminished.

“Regional communities already face significant economic pressures, and any reduction in essential transport connections only adds to those challenges.

“The Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce recognises the commercial realities facing airlines, but we would encourage Rex and all levels of government to consider the broader economic importance of maintaining reliable air services to regional communities.

“A strong Port Macquarie benefits the Camden Haven, just as a strong Camden Haven contributes to the prosperity of the wider region. Our economic futures are closely connected: it’s important that decisions about regional infrastructure and services reflect that.”

Federal Member for Lyne Alison Penfold expressed “deep disappointment” at the decision, warning that the loss of another regional airline leaves Mid North Coast passengers with fewer choices and potentially higher airfares.

Ms Penfold said the region first lost Virgin Australia from Port Macquarie, then FlyPelican from Taree, and now Rex.

“Regional communities depend on reliable and affordable air travel,” Penfold said.

“Whether it is for business, medical appointments, family commitments or tourism, air connections are an essential service, not a luxury.”

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council Mayor Adam Roberts and General Manager Robert Fish met with Rex’s CEO, Neville Howell, to discuss the suspension and explore ways the council and the airline could work collaboratively through it.

“The council recognises the importance of regional aviation and the impact the announcement will have on the community and business sector,” Cr Roberts said.

“Maintaining confidence in our region’s connectivity is important, and we are committed to working constructively with Rex Airlines through this period.”

Rex described the suspension as “temporary” but did not say when services might resume.

With Rex gone, QantasLink effectively has a monopoly on scheduled passenger flights from Port Macquarie.

“My concern is that less competition will mean higher fares for local passengers,” Alison Penfold said.

“Regional Australians already pay a premium for so many essential services. They should not be penalised further simply because of where they live.”