Australian regional airline group Regional Express has launched a charter broker subsidiary, RexJet Executive Charter, with partners in Dubai, the UK and the USA.

Sydney-based RexJet has 1,500 aircraft on its books through five "strategic affiliates" in the USA - in San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Miami and Houston - as well as a UK partner that covers Europe and another affiliate in Dubai, according to RexJet managing director Mark Diaz. He declines to name the partners, saying they will be announced within six months.

The aircraft available comprise 85 different types, ranging from five-seat pistons through to airliners, says Diaz. The fleet includes Skytraders' corporate Airbus A319LR which operates Australian Antarctic Division flights between Australia and Antarctica during the southern hemisphere summer. RexJet will also use the aircraft and resources of its sister companies Australian regional airlines Rex and Air Link, and airfreight and charter operator Pel-Air Aviation.

The group has previously provided air charter services, but the launch of RexJet formalises the business as a global provider and a one-stop shop, providing everything from aircraft charter to limousine services, personal protection and concierge services.

The initial aim was to establish the largest aircraft charter company in Australasia, but the business is now aiming globally, says Diaz. Despite the downturn, the company is pleased with the initial response to RexJet, he adds.

Source: Flight International