Helicopter Resources (Heli Resources), an Australian rotary operator, is collaborating with Regional Express Group, the parent company for Australian regional and domestic airline Rex through an exclusive teaming agreement. This strategic partnership comes as part of Rex’s preparation for the upcoming tender by the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) later this year, following the recent release of the Request for Information (RFI). The RFI specifically called for the provision of up to four twin-engine helicopters capable of both land and sea operations, including on board the AAD's flagship vessel, the RSV Nuyina.

Under the joint venture agreement, Rex will serve as the prime contractor and Heli Resources will be the sub-contractor, working together exclusively to deliver a complementary helicopter solution in response to the Antarctic tender.

Heli Resources holds the distinction of being the incumbent provider of similar services to the AAD, with an impressive track record since 1975 of successfully operating helicopters in the Antarctic. Its unparalleled expertise and operational reliability spanning 48 years have earned it an esteemed reputation within industry and with the AAD.

Rex’s Antarctic project manager, Craig Martin, expresses his confidence in the partnership: “There is no other helicopter operator with as much experience operating in the Antarctic. Heli Resources has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to safety and reliable delivery of helicopter services, earning the trust of the AAD after decades of Antarctic operations. The Rex Group cannot have hoped for a better partner for the complementary helicopter capability elements anticipated in the tender.”

Heli Resources chairman and managing director, Bill English adds: “We are thrilled to join forces with Rex in this exclusive teaming agreement for the Antarctic tender. With Heli Resources’ extensive experience we are confident that together with Rex, we will deliver a helicopter solution of exceptional quality and reliability. This partnership marks a significant milestone for both companies, and we are eager to leverage our expertise to support the AAD’s vital missions in this unique and challenging environment.”

The collaboration with Heli Resources is part of Rex’s broader plan to engage with specialist providers to manage other aspects of the programme that demand more specialised complementary expertise.

Rex is Australia’s largest independent regional and domestic airline operating a fleet of 58 Saab 340 and 8 Boeing 737-800NG aircraft to 57 destinations throughout all states in Australia. In addition to the airline Rex, the Rex group comprises wholly owned subsidiaries Pel-Air Aviation, an air freight, aeromedical and charter operator, the Australian Airline Pilot Academy with campuses in Wagga Wagga and Ballarat, and propeller maintenance organisation, Australian Aerospace Propeller Maintenance. Rex is also a 50% shareholder of National Jet Express (NJE), a premier Fly-In-Fly-Out (FIFO), charter and freight operator.