REX Airlines will be reducing flights servicing a number of its regional routes, including flights between Mount Gambier/Berrin and Melbourne.
The regional airline announced flights between Mount Gambier and Melbourne will drop from 15 flights per week to 12 flights per week from Monday, May 1.
Rex general manager of network strategy Warrick Lodge said in a statement that the changes were unavoidable.
“These adjustments are necessitated by the chronic shortage of airline professionals, particularly pilots and engineers, as well as the severe disruption in the supply chain of aircraft and engine parts,” Mr Lodge said.
“We do understand the impact these adjustments would have on the regional communities affected as Rex is the lifeline for these communities.
“We pledge that we will reinstate the services once the situation has stabilised.”
Though District Council of Grant spent $9.2 million on upgrades to the Mount Gambier Airport, which were completed at the end of 2020, chief executive Darryl Whicker said Council was not overly concerned about the news.
“Council is forecasting the passenger numbers at the Mount Gambier Regional Airport this year will exceed pre-covid levels, which is a direct correlation to frequency and price,” Mr Whicker said.
“Rex continues to support regional travel to and from Mount Gambier.”
Other regional flights affected in South Australia include Whyalla to Adelaide, Port Lincoln to Adelaide, Ceduna to Adelaide and Broken Hill to Adelaide.
The Mildura to Adelaide service will be suspended from May 1.
