Australia’s “newest” domestic airline is opening lounges at major airports across the country. As REX expands from just regional flights to remote places, their growing operation is competing with Virgin Australia and Qantas Lounges. Now serving destinations across the country and Australia’s most popular trunk routes between major cities; the airline has a small lounge network, too. Today, I am reviewing the Rex Lounge Sydney, the small domestic lounge which doubles as a Priority Pass lounge.
The current REX lounge in Sydney is a commuter-style regional lounge. Located near gate G2, there is nothing flashy about the REX lounge. Furthermore, it is the only Priority Pass lounge in Sydney’s domestic airport. A great option lounge option for American Express card holders. There are rumors that REX’s executives have been researching airport real estate in Brisbane to expand their network. Yet for now, REX lounges are only in Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide.
As I said the lounges are very basic. Improvements may be on their way to further compete with Australia’s other Airline lounges. For now though the lounge is showing its age. The couches are falling apart and the offering is minimal. There are several types of seating options throughout the lounges and computers for use.
The lounge food options are minimal. Look for pre-packaged snacks and coffee in addition to soda and water. The highlight for me, Australia’s favorite cookie:the TimTam
In the afternoon, there is Happy Hour. Happy Hour starts at 3pm and includes an offering of beer and wine. To no surprise, alcohol’s sin tax is high in Australia and hard alcohol is not available in the REX lounge.
Bottom Line
Overall, the REX lounge is a place to escape the hustle of the Sydney Domestic Airport. The reprieve from the airport chaos is nice, but not worth scheduling extra time for. Hopefully, as REX continues to grow their lounge network, they will receive the updates which REX executives have hinted at. For now, the REX lounge remains basic, like the foundations of the commuter airline they are part of.
