SAA resumes international flights
TINASHE MAKICHI
South Africa Airways (SAA) is set to resume international flights next months, six months after suspending flights in response to the South African government’s travel ban aimed at containing the transmission of Covid-19.
The Covid-19 pandemic and attendant travel restrictions resulted in a substantial decline in demand for air travel.
The carrier yesterday confirmed that the first flights will commence on September 23, 2021. Tickets will go on sale on August 26, while voyager bookings and Travel Credit Voucher redemption will be available from September 6, 2021.
SAA will, as an initial phase, operate flights from Johannesburg to Cape Town, Accra, Kinshasa, Harare, Lusaka and Maputo.
“After months of diligent work, we are delighted that SAA is resuming service and we look forward to welcoming on board our loyal passengers and flying the South African flag. We continue to be a safe carrier and adhering to Covid-19 protocols,” SAA interim chief executive Thomas Kgokolo said.
More destinations will be added to the route network as it ramps up operations in response to market conditions.
“There is a profound feeling of enthusiasm within Team SAA as we prepare for take-off, with one common purpose – to rebuild and sustain a profitable airline that once again takes a leadership role among local, continental, and international airlines.
“The aviation sector is currently going through a testing period, and we are aware of the tough challenges that lie ahead in the coming weeks. We thank South Africa for the support we have received in getting us to where we are today. As we are now poised for take-off, we see this as a major milestone for SAA and the country,” Kgokolo said.
SAA board chairman John Lamola said since the national carrier came out of business rescue at the end of April 2021, the Department of Public Enterprises together with the board and the management teams have been seized with planning for the re-launching of a restructured and fit for purpose airline that South Africans can again be proud of.
“The airline is restarting with a formidable business case,” Lamola said.
