The sale of regional airline Rex has been met with a mix of cautious optimism and urgent calls for its new American owners to guarantee the future of regional routes and jobs.

The airline, born in Wagga from the merger of Kendell and Hazelton Airlines , was sold to US company Air T after more than a year in voluntary administration.

Member for Wagga, Joe McGirr, welcomed the news but called on the new owners to maintain or expand the current flight schedules.

"Availability and reliability in air travel options are essential for the economic and lifestyle future of the regions, so I am pleased that Rex will be brought out of administration," Dr McGirr said.

"Competition in the regional aviation market is important to give travellers choice and value, and I urge the new owners of Rex

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