Newsroom
News and Media Releases
2020-22
-
Johannesburg (Monday, 30th May 2022) - South African Airways (SAA) has been alerted telephonically by an unidentified gentleman of a security incident affecting the safety of flight SA 3061, which departed at ? on 29 May 2022, from Lagos to Johannesburg.
The airline confirms that this is a valid threat which is currently unfolding on board the aircraft (A32) and safety and security emergency protocols have been activated. SAA can confirm that there are 59 passengers on board and 7 crew. The expected time of arrival of the flight SA 3061
SAA is working with all relevant authorities and further information would be made public as soon as it becomes available. 11h10
-
Johannesburg (6th May 2022) – The Board of SAA is concerned at the publication of an unorthodox interview between a journalist at Business Day, and its external auditors, Auditor-General of South Africa (AG). It has been assumed that protocol proscribe an external auditor to engage in that extent of public media engagement on affairs of its client. It is also regrettable that the newspaper made no effort to solicit SAA’s views on the matter.
In terms of applicable legislation, the preparation and presentation of audited financials to a shareholder is a cardinal function of the Board of Directors. Accordingly, the Board of SAA is concerned at the misleading impression created by the said newspaper article.
After exiting business rescue in April 2021 and resuming flight operations, SAA’s new Board and executive management have committed the company to good governance, transparency, and fiducial responsibility. The preparation and release of the 2017/18 financial statements is just one step in a lengthy process undertaken to rebuild and repostion SAA. A process the AG’s Office is aware of, is underway to finalise and release all outstanding annual financial statements .
The fact that the 2017/18 audited financial statements were finalised in 2022 is not unreasonable given SAA’s history of not being a going concern at the time of the audit and SAA’s subsequent entry into business rescue in 2019. Annual financial statements for the 2018/19, 2019/20 and 2020/21 financial years have been prepared but external audits were not conducted as the airline was in business rescue. The 2021/22 annual financial statements are currently being prepared and will be submitted timeously to the AG for audit.
SAA is now staffed by professionals who are cognizant of all the fiduciary, legal and political imperatives within which the airline is emerging as a vibrant competitor in the both the local and global aviation industry.
ENDS
Media Enquiries may be directed to:
Ms Vimla Maistry
Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com
Mobile: +27 83 324 3620
Office: +27 11 978 2303
Web: www.flysaa.com
-
JOHANNESBURG (August 4) - SAA has taken another significant step closer to resuming operations after being granted a renewed operating license by the regulator, the South African Civil Aviation Authority, under the stewardship of Captain Sakhile Reiling, SAA’s Interim Executive: Operations.
SAA’s Interim CEO Thomas Kgokolo says, “This is an important development as SAA readies itself to take to the skies again in just a few weeks. At our Airways Park headquarters, in hangars and at terminals around the country our staff are hard at work in finishing the final preparatory phases before we make an official announcement about the exact take-off date.
“While I acknowledge there is frustration over a delay in confirming this date, all of us at SAA need to make sure vital components in a very complicated and multi-faceted process are working seamlessly before we start. I’m confident that we will be able to make that announcement soon.”
As SAA accelerates its readiness, Kgokolo has also confirmed that all management and specialist pilots have now been appointed and that the pilots who will form the nucleus of the fleet’s cockpit have been identified and the processes to bring them on board will conclude in the next two weeks.
Notes Kgokolo, “I again want to thank all our pilots, those who will remain and those who are leaving, for the service they give and have given to SAA, always placing safety and professionalism first which has made SAA one of the most admired airlines in the world.” He says the cockpit crew will continue with flight training in anticipation of resuming operations.
Issued by SAA’s Group Corporate Affairs
Media Enquiries may be directed to:
Ms Vimla Maistry
Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com
Mobile: +27 83 324 3620
-
JOHANNESBURG (July 26) - SAA remains on track to resume operations with an initial focus on cargo flights before introducing a full passenger service.
Giving a comprehensive update on progress made since coming out of business rescue in April, Interim CEO Thomas Kgokolo has also confirmed that SAA subsidiary, Mango Airlines, will go into business rescue and is receiving top priority with intense consultations underway with all key stakeholders.
Kgokolo said both SAA’s Board and Executives are aware that June and July salaries have not been paid to Mango staff and this is receiving urgent attention. The funds gazetted for SAA subsidiaries totaling R2.7bn is yet to be received by SAA to recapitalize the subsidiaries. We are in constant contact with our shareholder in this regard.
On SAA resuming operations, Kgokolo says compliance documentation has been submitted to the Civil Aviation Authority and once evaluated and passed, SAA will be cleared to restart operating under a renewed license. He’s hoping this process will be completed in a week or two.
Kgokolo says running parallel to this process has been a mandatory retraining program for pilots which has now been completed. Kgokolo says government’s decision to revert to a Level 3 Covid-19 lockdown has made the process of flight resumption easier. “At this time, we are meeting with all our key role players, putting into place final touch-ups and I’m hoping we can make an announcement on the passenger front within the coming weeks.”
Kgokolo says in terms of SAA Technical and Air Chefs, Section 189 consultation process has started.
He has reassured SAA passengers that despite technical operations eventually being slimmed down, core skills and competencies will remain, and safety will not in any way be compromised.
The due diligence process, for SAA’s SEP runs concurrently with SAA’s process of taking to the skies again, as we are working on a business model that seek to grow the airline and the economy.
Issued by SAA’s Group Corporate Affairs
-
16 July 2021 - Pilots sign deal with SAA - New chapter in airline history says CEO Collapsed Content
JOHANNESBURG (JULY 16) – SAA has reached an agreement with the SAA Pilots Association (SAAPA), which marks another significant milestone towards resuming operations. This follows the in-principle
agreement reached on 6 July 2021, with member pilots voting with a significant 94.9% majority, in favour of the agreement during a ballot process which closed on the 11th July.
The airline’s interim CEO Thomas Kgokolo says, “This is a new and important chapter in SAA’s proud history. It has always been our fervent wish that all employees, including all our pilots, become part of the journey as we travel towards new horizons.”
The negotiations have taken more than ten months, and the airline appreciates the spirit of commitment by all parties’ in finding a reasonable solution to the impasse. The agreement sees SAA retaining 88 pilots from the total of 268 remaining pilots.
Kgokolo says, “It is common knowledge that this process has been a difficult one for all concerned especially as SAA is acknowledged by the aviation industry the world over for having outstanding Cockpit Crew. Together with the airline’s board of directors and executive committee, I thank those pilots who will be leaving the airline, for their dedicated service and wish them success in their future endeavours.”
Mr Kgokolo added, “What is most important to me, is that, following a prolonged period of not earning a salary, our pilots will now receive all monies due to them. We have already started the process to make payments that do not require tax directives.”
SAA’s interim CEO says, “Much care, sensitivity and thought has gone into this process, and we have achieved an optimal balance between vital experience required in the cockpit as well as addressing the company’s transformation objectives. Our next step now is to accelerate the last stage of preparation for the airline to return to the skies.”
Issued by SAA’s Group Corporate Affairs
-
Joint media statement by South African Airways and
McKinsey & Company5 July 2021
South African Airways (SAA) and McKinsey & Company are pleased to announce a full and final settlement of approximately R14.5 million in respect of McKinsey’s work with SAA.
The settlement concludes the voluntary commitment McKinsey made at the Judicial Commission of Inquiry (the “Commission) in December 2020 to repay to SAA the fees for the one project it had undertaken with Regiments Capital as supplier development partner at the airway. This followed information presented by the Commission that cast doubt on Regiments Capital.
The Commission was clear that its evidence did not implicate any McKinsey employees or partners in any corruption or impropriety in relation to this contract.
The settlement demonstrates the efforts of both SAA and McKinsey to follow the Commission’s encouragement for good corporate citizens “doing business with the State (including SOEs) to make clear that they will not retain the proceeds of contracts that are tainted by corruption even if that corruption was the product of processes in which they were not involved.”
-- ENDS --
-
JOHANNESBURG (JULY 2, 2021) – The Labour Court delivered its Judgment in the application for urgent relief launched by the SAA Pilots’ Association (SAAPA) on June 30 2021.
SAAPA sought, yet again, to challenge the lawfulness and protected nature of SAA’s lockout and SAA’s use of replacement labour while SAAPA pilots are locked out. SAAPA also sought payment of remuneration for the period of 1 – 18 December 2020.
The matter was first heard on April 15, 2021, but in light of the Labour Court not accepting the extreme urgency under which SAAPA launched the application, the matter was postponed to June 15 2021, when it was finally heard.
The Labour Court, per Judge Prinsloo, struck the matter from the roll and awarded costs in SAA’s favour arising from a supplementary affidavit filed by SAAPA. Ultimately, it held once again that SAA’s lockout and its use of replacement labour was lawful and protected and that SAAPA was not entitled to the relief it sought, particularly on the urgent basis on which SAAPA launched the application.
The Labour Court further provided that “The Applicant cannot be permitted to have a second bite at the cherry and approach the urgent Court on every occasion…to challenge the lawfulness of the lockout”. It also confirmed the binding nature of its Judgment on the lawfulness of SAA’s use of replacement labour. In addition, it criticised SAAPA for a “shocking attempt” to not disclose to the Court that it had sought the same relief relating to outstanding remuneration and payment of a 13th cheque in the High Court and for its “lame explanation”.
Concerning the payment of SAA’s costs, the Labour Court stated, “Fairness dictates that the SAA and ultimately the taxpayers of this country cannot be expected to endure enormous costs defending litigation where more thought and consideration had to be put in before the supplementary affidavit was filed.”
SAA’s interim CEO, Thomas Kgokolo, says, “While we are pleased by yet another success in the Labour Court, the solution to resolving the impasse between SAA and the pilots does not arise from success in litigation. We are hopeful that SAAPA will now be willing to return to the negotiating table, on a reasonable and pragmatic basis, to achieve a resolution that will ensure the sustainability of the airline.”
ENDS
Issued by SAA Group Corporate Affairs
Media Enquiries may be directed to:
Ms Vimla Maistry
Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com
Mobile: +27 83 324 3620
-
South African Airways (SAA) is aware of the ongoing and intensifying false and fraudulent advertising and recruitment scam for SAA Learnership programmes and Flight Attendants. It is public knowledge that SAA is reaching its final stages in its preparation for an operational restart.This information has resulted in attempts by criminals to target unsuspecting members of the public and offer recruitment at the national airline.
Over the past few weeks, there has been a heightened publicity of various recruitment scam links and sites for Flight Attendants and SAA Learnership programmes.
These false advertisements are requesting interested persons to apply and to even pay a recruitment fee to secure a placement. SAA confirms that there are no vacancies at present for Flight Attendants and no intake for SAA Learnerships.
There is currently no advertising on any external sites or social media platforms.
We urge all job seekers to exercise caution and take additional measures to satisfy themselves about the authenticity of vacancies before responding to invitations to submit applications for possible employment or make any payments.
It is important to note that SAA will never insist that applications must be sent through to personal email addresses and the airline does not use the @mailbox.co.za domain for email communication purposes. In addition, the airline does not receive applications’ or CV’s by email.
The airline uses an online recruitment system for internal applications which requires applicants to first register their interest.This process enables applicants to upload their CV’s and other supporting documents that might be required.
Registration for external applicants is done through SAA’s website at www.flysaa.com/careers.
No registration or application fee is applicable or requested when applying for any SAA vacancies.
Issued by
SAA Communications Office
-
Release from Joint SAA Business Rescue Practitioners (BRPs), Mr. Les Matuson and Mr. Siviwe Dongwana
The South African Airways (SAA) Business Rescue Practitioners (BRPs), Siviwe Dongwana and Les Matuson, have issued a draft business rescue plan to affected persons for comment and consultation. They have also received an extension as requested, for its final publication to 8 June 2020.
The BRPs noted, “The draft plan was sent to the creditors’ and employees’ committees as well as the DPE. The draft has however been leaked to the media. As was noted in the draft business rescue plan, ‘It is for discussion purposes and may not be circulated to any other party’. Given that it is a draft and has not received agreement or comment from any of the relevant affected persons we will not comment on the leaked draft to the media and will await input from the affected parties as is prescribed by the Companies Act.
To assume and comment on this draft as if it is the final version would be very irresponsible.”
The practitioners will endeavour to publish the final business rescue plan as soon as they are in the position to do so and will update creditors on the process of the development of the plan.
“The extension will not stop the practitioners from continuing to take the necessary steps to progress SAA’s business rescue and will continue to take proactive steps to conserve cash and protect the interests of SAA,” concluded the BRPs.
ENDS
-
Johannesburg – 30 May 2020: South African Airways (SAA) has secured approvals during the South African national lockdown, which saw the closure of borders, to operate repatriation flights to and from several international destinations. The airline further encourages the use of its portal for those interested in the repatriation flights. This is after SAA approached government to grant a special dispensation to continue to operate international repatriation flights due to continued demand.
“We require an expression of interest by passengers to determine the commercial and logistical viability of operating these flights. Due to numerous enquiries that we have received through various channels, including our social media platforms and our foreign missions, we decided to open a portal to gauge the real traveller interest,” said Tebogo Tsimane, acting General Manager for Operations.
This initiative has been approved by the government.
At this stage, SAA has received approvals to operate the following flights:
SAA REPATRIATION FLIGHTS
APPROVED DESTINATIONS
NO.
DATE
ORIGIN
DESTINATION
1.
01 June
Washington D.C
Johannesburg
2.
06 June
Johannesburg
Dubai
3.
06 June
Johannesburg
Brisbane
4.
08 June
Bahrain
Johannesburg
5.
08 June
Dubai
Johannesburg
6.
09 June
Brisbane
Johannesburg
7.
09 June
Johannesburg
Moscow
8.
09 June
Johannesburg
Frankfurt
9.
11 June
Frankfurt
Johannesburg
10.
11 June
Moscow
Johannesburg
11.
12 June
Johannesburg
Bangkok
12.
12 June
Johannesburg
Hanoi
13.
13 June
Johannesburg
Sao Paolo
14.
14 June
Hanoi
Johannesburg
15.
14 June
Bangkok
Johannesburg
16.
15 June
Sao Paolo
Johannesburg
17.
15 June
Johannesburg
Beijing
18.
17 June
Beijing
Johannesburg
19.
17 June
Johannesburg
Washington D.C
20.
20 June
Washington D.C
Johannesburg
A registration portal has been created and is available on the airline’s website, www.flysaa.com or by clicking on the following direct hyperlink: https://www.flysaa.com/za/en/repatriation.action
“Registration on the portal determines the viability of the flight and once the demand supports the operational viability of the flight, an SAA staff member will contact interested customers to book their flight and issue the tickets,” Tsimane explained.
There are specific requirements per destination and customers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with those requirements for compliance with the regulations and to stand a chance to be able to travel.
Some of the requirements and conditions include the following:
- Payment of ticket via prescribed method of payment (electronic bank transfers).
- Baggage allowance for a charter flight is standard two (2) pieces at 23kg per piece and one (1) x 7kg for hand luggage per passenger.
- All passengers MUST carry their own PPE/Masks for the flight.
- No one who has tested positive for COVID 19 will be allowed to board the flight.
- A refund will be provided if passengers are not approved to travel or you show symptoms of COVID-19 on the day of departure.
- Passengers are responsible for their own onward connections if applicable.
- No pets and live animals will be allowed. However, guide dogs will be allowed.
“Registration on the portal does not constitute a reservation for the flight, it is only a record of customers’ interest. We urge customers not to make any payments into the SAA bank account until they have been confirmed by SAA and received a booking reference which they will use to make payment,” concluded Tsimane.
The airline will update its registration portal on a regular basis to include new destinations once approvals have been secured.
SAA has operated 56 repatriation flights to six continents since 3 April to date and safely reunited 11, 367 passengers with their families and loved ones during the lockdown. In addition, the airline transferred 1000024 kilograms of combined import and export cargo during the same period.
Ends.
For Media Enquiries, please contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298General Enquiries:
Website: www.flysaa.com
Twitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaa
Twitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_care
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa
-
JOHANNESBURG. 26 May 2020. South African Airways (SAA) is currently retaining its domestic schedule, as published between Johannesburg and Cape Town, with effect from mid-June 2020. Accordingly, SAA is focusing on ensuring operational readiness to resume flights once permissible.
This position will be reviewed on an ongoing basis.
At the same time, SAA is cancelling all planned scheduled flights on regional and international services until the end of June 2020 with immediate effect. This decision has been taken as a result of the continuing global impact of the Coronavirus pandemic. Many restrictive rules and regulations still apply to civil aviation across the world. On this basis, it is not yet possible to resume operations beyond South Africa’s borders in a sustainable manner.
“Everyone at SAA is looking forward to welcoming and serving our customers once again. Our operational preparedness is underlined by the significant role the airline has played in global repatriations to and from South Africa and by our desire to serve the domestic market,” stated Philip Saunders, SAA’s Chief Commercial Officer.
For those customers holding unused SAA tickets for these flights, there is no need to contact the airline at this time. All customers will be able to use their ticket’s full value as a credit for travel on any SAA service up to an including 24th March 2022. SAA will also permit a free name change if any individual customer no longer wishes to travel. This represents an important part of SAA’s continued commitment to support our customers in these unprecedented times.
SAA is committed to restart further operations on an incremental basis, and will regularly provide updates on progress.
END
For Media Enquiries, please contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298General Enquiries:
Website: www.flysaa.com
Twitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaa
Twitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_care
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa
-
Johannesburg, 8 May 2020 - South African Airways (SAA) would like to reassure its customers and stakeholders that it will continue to operate repatriation and cargo flights during the month of May and beyond.
SAA has no plans to cease its operations on the 8th of May. The airline will honour all existing commitments to provide air transportation services to its customers and any other requests that it receives.
There are several requests for repatriation flights to operate to North, West and East Africa, the UK, the Middle East, South and North America, and the Far East during the course of this month that are being considered by the airline.
“We are in ongoing discussions with the Departments of Public Enterprises (DPE) and that of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), regarding other destinations where South African citizens may be stranded. Further, we are responding proactively in those instances where there is a need for essential humanitarian cargo for our country and for the neighbouring states to be uplifted,” says Thandeka Mgoduso, Interim SAA Executive Chairperson.
The airline continues to receive and operationalise requests from various foreign governments, who still have their citizens stranded in South Africa.
Since the 3rd of April, SAA has transported more than 9 100 passengers to six continents and more than 870 tons of freight, both export and import consignments, which included essential humanitarian cargo. As long as such requests are received, SAA will endeavour to fulfill them.
Ends
For Media Enquiries, please contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298Customer Enquiries
Website: www.flysaa.com
Twitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaa
Twitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_care
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa
-
JOHANNESBURG. 10 April 2020. South African Airways (SAA), is collaborating with the Government of Canada through the High Commission of Canada in South Africa, to assist Canadians who are stranded in South Africa to return home, after the lockdown was implemented in response to the outbreak of the coronavirus, which resulted in travel restrictions.
Canadian citizens and permanent residents will return home from South Africa on a repatriation flight scheduled to depart on Friday 10 April 2020 at 16h00 (SA time). The flight will transport 313 Canadians from Johannesburg and Cape Town to London for onward connections to Canada.
SAA has already repatriated thousands of German citizens, Brazilians citizens and Belgian nationals to their respective home countries over the past two weeks.
These repatriation flights require among other things, the consideration, approval and support of the South African government to implement.
“We are pleased to assist and will continue to work with foreign governments through their respective embassies and high commissions in the repatriation of their nationals to re-join their families to share comfort, support and strength during these trying times,” said SAA acting General Manager for Operations, Tebogo Tsimane.Acting High Commissioner of Canada to South Africa, Mr. Kim Butler, noted, “We know how important it is to be home in these challenging times. We are very happy to be working with SAA and the Government of South Africa to organise this special flight that will allow many Canadians to make their way home”.
SAA will operate this special flight in collaboration with the Government of Canada, in line with the health and safety provisions contained in the South African travel regulations and other relevant provisions undertaken during the lockdown, as well as Transport Canada regulations.
“SAA has taken all measures to ensure that the airport staff, cabin crew and flight deck crew are safe and protected by providing the appropriate training and protective clothing as approved by the Communicable Disease plan,” commented Tsimane.Only Canadian nationals not showing symptoms of the coronavirus will be allowed to travel on this flight. Screening protocols will be conducted before the flight’s departure at the airport. Individuals who have tested positive for COVID 19 or who are showing symptoms of the virus will be required to remain in South Africa and seek medical advice and treatment locally. Passengers with flu-like symptoms will also not be allowed on these flights.
We wish to thank all SAA employees who have been requested and undertaken the task to prepare and serve on this flight.-Ends-
For Media Enquiries, please contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298General Enquiries:
Website: www.flysaa.com
Twitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaa
Twitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_care
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa
-
Johannesburg, 8 April 2020. For the first time in its history, the Cargo division of South African Airways, SAA Cargo, operated a passenger aircraft for a pure cargo uplift.
On 06 April 2020 and in response to the increased demand for cargo flights to distribute critical and essential goods during the lockdown, SAA Cargo operated an Airbus A340-600 as a cargo only flight, transporting essential goods between Johannesburg and Frankfurt.
The outbound cargo included perishables such as fish, fresh fruits and vegetables, laboratory supplies as well as automotive and aircraft parts for repairs. On the inbound leg from Europe the aircraft landed last night in Johannesburg and the cargo included testing kits for COVID-19, immunological pharmaceuticals, insulin, surgical personal protective equipment (PPE), and processing equipment for food such as baby milk powder.
“SAA has demonstrated agility and we are working with our partners to provide them and our country with solutions that are relevant in these difficult times. The decision to deploy an A346, is based on both its capacity and range and so bolsters our freighter services during this time when there is high demand for cargo shipments,” said SAA Cargo’s acting General Manager, Justice Luthuli.
The next pure cargo flight is scheduled to depart from Johannesburg to Guangzhou on Friday, 10 April 2020. It will operate on the same aircraft type for collection and delivery of medical supplies.
SAA Cargo has stepped up as a trade facilitator and a solution provider to sustain supply chains to and from various countries. The solution is provided on a charter basis at the request of our customers, who are producers and suppliers of essential cargo. All flights are operated under strict operating procedures and in full compliance to COVID-19 civil aviation and health regulatory measures by both our staff and our customers.
“As a national carrier, we are pleased that we can contribute in response to our country’s needs to bring in much needed medical supplies and other essential goods to assist in the fight against COVID-19. We extend our gratitude to all our employees for their commitment and service during this time,” Luthuli concluded.
ENDS
About SAA Cargo
SAA Cargo, the airfreight division of SAA provides terminal services and a global distribution network for purposes of cargo air transportation logistics. The division is integral in providing various solutions for global rapid movement of essential goods such as agri-products, pharmaceuticals, valuable and vulnerable cargo, human remains, spare parts, pets, courier, diplomatic mail, dangerous goods and other related service. The operating model for SAA Cargo division is based on a combination of the line flights, purchase of capacity from strategic partner airlines and freighter service for regional transhipment. This is supplemented by an extensive global interline and road feeder service.
-Ends-
For Media Enquiries, please contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298Customer Enquiries
South African Airways Call Centre on +27 (0)11 978-1111 or 0861 606 606 or 0800 214 774 (South Africa only) or +27 (0)11 978-2888.
General Enquiries:
Website: www.flysaa.com
Twitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaa
Twitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_care
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa
-
Johannesburg – 2 April 2020
On Monday, 22 March 2020, the South African government took the decision to declare a national lockdown starting at midnight on 26 March 2020, to curb the spread of the Covid-19. The South African borders were consequently closed and all passenger air travel, with the exception of cargo flights delivering essential supplies, was shut down.
The national lockdown happened with short notice and consequently many foreign passengers, including tourists, workers and students were unable to amend their travel plans to return to their homes, before the effective date of 26 March 2020.
Subsequent to the announcement and the start of the lockdown, representatives of several governments have engaged with the joint BRPs of SAA to consider having SAA provide the safe passage of their citizens to their respective home countries. These engagements have required the consideration, approval and support of the South African government to implement and taking into account the amended regulations issued by the Department of Transport yesterday.
Following the engagements with various embassies and in consultation with the relevant government departments, SAA has agreed to provide repatriation charter flights to various international destinations.
The first of these chartered flights will be for the repatriation of German citizens to their home country. They are expected operate from Friday, 3 April 2020 from Johannesburg to Munich and Cape Town to Frankfurt. The BRPs have confirmed that negotiations are ongoing with other governments for the repatriation of their citizens.
SAA will operate the charter services subject to the health and safety provisions contained in the regulations and other relevant provisions during the lockdown. To address the health and safety concerns of both passengers and crew and in compliance with the lockdown regulations, we wish to point out the following:
- These flights are commercial in nature to deal with the thousands of passengers who could not be accommodated as a consequence of the immediate lockdown.
- These flights are not for the transportation of individuals who have tested positive for Covid-19 and are not medical evacuation flights.
- Individuals who have tested positive for Covid-19 will not be allowed on any of these flights.
- All passengers would be subject to the screening protocols prior to departure as required by the South African authorities and SAA’s policies.
- Any passengers that presents flu-like symptoms will not be allowed on any of these flights.
“In these difficult times, SAA is committed to collaborating with all its partners and stakeholders in the fight against Covid-19. The airline will ensure the necessary transfer of passengers and essential cargo takes place in a safe and compliant manner for all during these flights”, noted the BRPs.
We wish to thank all SAA employees who have been requested and undertaken the task to prepare and serve on these flights.
ENDS
Contact Louise Brugman on 083 5041186 for and on behalf of the Business Rescue Practitioners.
-
JOHANNESBURG, 30 March 2020 - The board and management of South African Airways (SAA) wishes to thank and congratulate the SAA crew who flew the chartered aircraft which repatriated citizens from Wuhan, where the coronavirus originated.
The crew and 112 South Africans were cleared to return to their families on Sunday after testing negative for the coronavirus in a second round of tests since their arrival from Wuhan, China.
Acting chairperson of the SAA board, Thandeka Mgoduso said that by agreeing to be in an SAA charter flight evacuating the nationals from Wuhan, the crew exemplified the spirit of Ubuntu and Thuma Mina, whose ethos is that the greatest responsibility for us all is humility, discipline, empathy, generosity and volunteerism.
“We thank The Almighty, the SAA crew, members of the South African National Defence Force and the medical team from the Department of Health, that none of the repatriated South Africans have tested positive for COVID-19 after they were quarantined for 14 days. We further thank the staff at The Ranch for courageously and caringly looking after the whole group that returned from Wuhan.
“Even though they may have had concerns and anxieties about the possibility of contracting the virus, it is clear that the call to national duty superseded all these anxieties. They adhered to the strict medical advice and protocols and took all the precautionary measures before, during and after the repatriation.
“Emerging from the quarantine period with no COVID 19 infection, our crew can now play a vital role in conscientizing and advising their communities in South Africa, about the importance of observing the strict medical advice and the wisdom of adhering to the publicised protocols. They are now not only SAA ambassadors but also change agents for curbing the spread of the coronavirus.
“At SAA, we are grateful for and proud of their kindness, empathy and spirit of volunteerism and a strong sense of national responsibility. Their resilience and ability to rise to the challenge and withstand the rigours of the mission and the further quarantining after arriving in the country; are highly commendable.
“Their willingness to give their time and talent is greatly appreciated. This behaviour and commitment to doing what is right, has set a good example for everyone in the country, as we all struggle with the early stages of the pandemic.
“Their compassion and willingness to heed the call for national duty must be an inspiration for us all. It must encourage all of us to want to be part of the solution in combating the scourge of the coronavirus. We congratulate and applaud them,” said Mgoduso.
-Ends-
For Media Enquiries, please contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298General Enquiries:
Website: www.flysaa.com
Twitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaa
Twitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_care
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa
-
JOHANNESBURG - 26 March 2020. The Board of Directors at South African Airways (SAA) announced today that it has accepted the request from Ms Zuks Ramasia, SAA Acting CEO, for early retirement. Her last date of employ will be 14 April 2020.
“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Zuks for her leadership, passionate commitment and selfless contribution during her illustrious 27 years at SAA. Her journey was truly an example of how a number of women are progressively moving up the ranks in previously male-dominated industries.
“We extend our sincerest gratitude to Zuks for her contribution at SAA and wish her success in her future endeavours,” said Thandeka Mgoduso, Acting Chairperson of the SAA Board.
Ms Ramasia started as a cabin crew member in 1992, rose to the ranks of Senior Cabin Crew Member, then Safety and Emergency Procedures trainer, before taking up her first management position at Crew Movement in 2000.
In December 2005, she was appointed as Head of SAA’s Global Operations Control Centre (GOCC), a position she held for seven years before she was appointed as General Manager for Operations in 2012. In June 2019, she was appointed Acting CEO and was also appointed as Chairperson of the Airlines Association of Southern Africa in October 2019.
She advocated for the aviation industry through her various international directorial roles at the Coordination Services Limited and International Air Transport Association Operations Committee. She actively participated as aviation panellist speaker, owing to her vast proficiency and contributed in the fight against women discrimination and gender inequality in aviation.
Ms Ramasia made an indelible mark on those she worked with at SAA, inspiring and mentoring several employees in their quest for aviation career advancement. She especially motivated women in their aviation careers and was unflinching in her commitment towards transformation of the industry. She amongst others, appointed Daicy Demas, as the first woman airport manager at SAA’s hub, OR Tambo International Airport, and Siyabonga Sithole as the first woman in the same role at King Shaka International Airport, in Durban. She also appointed two other women as first women in managerial positions at GOCC.
In recognition of her contribution and influence as a leader, Ramasia was a finalist in the 2019 Standard Bank Top Women Awards.
The Board will make an announcement in due course on an interim successor during the Business Rescue process.
-ends-
For Media Enquiries, please contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298 -
Johannesburg – 24 March 2020. South African Airways (SAA) announced its decision to suspend all its domestic flights with effect from Friday, 27 March until 16 April 2020 (inclusive). The decision came after government announced a nation-wide lockdown for 21 days aimed at combatting the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
SAA supports this national effort as announced by the government, to retard, contain, manage and disrupt the rate of transmission of the COVID-19.
Last Friday, SAA announced the suspension of all intercontinental and Africa regional flights. All these flights remain suspended until 31 May 2020.
Period Before National Lockdown (24 March – 26 March 2020)
The airline will provide support to passengers who intend to change their travel plans and commence their journeys before the implementation of the national lockdown. SAA is committed to looking after the interests of its customers and will assist customers whose itinerary must change as a result of the lockdown. There will be one free travel change for travel between Tuesday, 24 March and Thursday, 26 March 2020. Re-accommodation of the customers for this purpose will happen on a first-come-first-served basis.
Period During National Lockdown (27 March – 16 April 2020)
SAA regrets that its call centres will not operate for the duration of the lockdown. Customers may direct their enquiries through any of the following channels:
- Customer Solutions: customersolutions@flysaa.com
- COVID-19 enquiries on SAA policy
- COVID-19 enquiries on Travel Bans
- General enquiries relating to SAA business continuity
- Reservations JNB: ReservationsJNB@flysaa.com
- Revenue Tickets
- Changes to existing bookings, for future travel
- New bookings
- Revenue Tickets
- Voyager Service Recovery: VoyagerServiceRecovery@flysaa.com
- Voyager Blue, Silver and Gold members
- Changes to existing bookings, for future travel
- New bookings
- PIN Reset
- Voyager Blue, Silver and Gold members
- Voyager Platinum members would continue to be supported via the dedicated email channel
Period After National Lockdown (17 April and onwards)
In recognition of the travel disruptions and restrictions that flow from the national lockdown and as part of looking after our customers, SAA has put measures in place to give passengers the flexibility to defer their travel to a period beyond the lockdown.
SAA will resume its domestic flights on 17 April 2020.
All passengers who are willing to defer their travel will be expected to comply with conditions set out in the updated customer reservation policy.
Customers are advised that the updated policy applies across SAA’s route network, including domestic, regional and international flights.
To demonstrate our care and commitment to our passengers, the policy provides for changes for a period that extends beyond the industry norm (where ordinarily tickets are valid for 6 months only for domestic travel and 12 months for international travel) which is up until 2022. Below is a summary of the policy:
- The policy applies to tickets issued on/before 24 March 2020 and new tickets issued up to 31 Aug 2020.
- Customers holding an 083 ticket for flights operated by SAA will be offered a refund in the form of a credit that can be used for future travel.
- Customers holding an 083 ticket for flights marketed by South African Airways in the flight range 7000-7999 and Mango codeshare flights will also qualify for the credit.
- The value of the credit will equal the value of the unused sectors (coupons).
- The original ticket rules will be waived.
- The credit must be used between the period 24 March 2020 to 24 March 2022.
- The credit can be used to purchase another ticket of the same/lower value or used as part payment for a ticket with a higher value.
- Any additional amount to be collected (i.e. fares, taxes and surcharges) will be for the passenger’s account.
- Change of routing will be permitted.
- This travel advisory waives the 72-hour rule
The full policy is available at www.flysaa.com
SAA apologizes for the inconvenience caused as a result of the suspension of its flights. We trust that our customers and stakeholders will appreciate that these decisions are meant for the national benefit.
-Ends-
Customer Enquiries:
South African Airways Call Centre on +27 (0)11 978-1111 or 0861 606 606 or 0800 214 774 (South Africa only) or +27 (0)11 978-2888.
General Enquiries:
Website: www.flysaa.com
Twitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaa
Twitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_care
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa
For Media Enquiries, please contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298 - Customer Solutions: customersolutions@flysaa.com
-
Johannesburg, 20 March 2020. Earlier today, South African Airways (SAA) announced that it is suspending all international flights with immediate effect until 31 May 2020, to support the government travel ban aimed at stopping the transmission of the Coronavirus (Covid-19).
As a direct consequence of this suspension, there was an immediate drastic reduction of demand for the African regional flights. SAA is a network carrier, which means that a significant part of the regional bookings demand is fed by the passengers that travel to or from the international destinations.
Therefore, the suspension of the international flights has resulted in the airline not being able to operate its normal network. This resulted in operation of regional flights not being commercially viable anymore.
Flights to the following destinations have been suspended as of 20 March 2020 until 31 May 2020: Accra (Ghana), Lusaka (Zambia), Harare (Zimbabwe), Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), Windhoek (Namibia), Lagos (Nigeria), Entebbe (Uganda), Livingstone (Zambia), Blantyre & Lilongwe (Malawi), Nairobi (Kenya), Kinshasa (DRC), Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) and Maputo (Mozambique).Mauritius will operate until Saturday, 21 March 2020.
This decision means that SAA will only continue to render services on its domestic route between Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Customers can also visit our website, www.flysaa.com, for further updates.
For media enquiries, please contact:
SAA SpokespersonMr Tlali TlaliEmail: TlaliTlali@flysaa.comOffice: +27 (0)11 978-2298
Customers to contact:
Reservations Contact Centre (Make changes to a reservation to travel at a later date)+27 11 978 1111 or 0861 606 606COVID-19 Information Contact Centre (Enquire about available options, travel restrictions, and reservations change policies)+27 11 978 6699 or 0800 214 774Customer Services (Escalations, Complaints and Compliments)+27 11 978 2888General Enquiries:Website: www.flysaa.comTwitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaaTwitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_careFacebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa -
JOHANNESBURG, 20 March 2020 –South African Airways (SAA) has announced that it will immediately suspend all international operations until 31 May 2020 in response to a government travel ban aimed at stopping the transmission of the Coronavirus (Covid-19).
The COVID-19 pandemic and attendant travel restrictions, resulted in substantial decline in demand for air travel. The situation caused many airlines across the world to ground aircraft, release their employees, and to cancel flights. In the case of SAA, this decision means that SAA will only render services on its regional and domestic routes.
Following the declaration of the State of Disaster after the outbreak of COVID-19 in South Africa, the government announced a travel ban and issued regulations, which introduced certain measures aimed at combatting the spread or transmission of the virus.
Amongst other things, the regulations, issued on Thursday state that: “Disembarkation of foreign nationals from the high-risk countries is suspended on airports upon arrival. Embarkation and disembarkation is permissible under the following circumstances: Disembarkation of returning South African citizens and permanent residents; embarkation of departing foreign nationals, disembarkation of a declared medical emergency; foreign nationals must be approved by port health services; upon landing, crew from high risk countries shall be subject to medical screening and quarantined for 21 days”.
SAA operates in three markets that form part of countries listed in the travel ban as high-risk areas. These are the United States (Washington DC and New York, JFK), the United Kingdom (London, Heathrow) and Germany (Frankfurt and Munich). In addition, SAA operates flights to Australia (Perth) and Brazil (São Paulo) which have not been declared high-risk. All of which are now cancelled.
“In support of efforts by government to deal with this pandemic, and in the best interests of our crew, passengers and the public, we have decided to suspend all international flights until 31 May 2020. It is all our responsibility, not just government, to curb further transmission of the virus. In addition, the increasing risks to our crew of contracting the virus including the possibility of being trapped in foreign destinations as a consequence of increasing travel bans cannot be ignored,” said SAA Acting CEO, Zuks Ramasia.
“We also recognise the fluidity in the conditions we operate in and the need to respond to these changes with speed, to this end we commit to keep all our stakeholders abreast of any changes on an ongoing basis,” said Ramasia.
SAA regrets any inconvenience to our customers as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and we encourage all customers to visit our website, www.flysaa.com, for further updates.
Customers are advised to either contact their travel agents, or for direct bookings, South African Airways Call Centres on +27 (0)11 978-1111 or 0861 606-606 or 0800 214-774 (South Africa only) or +27 (0)11 978-2888.
“We thank customers for their support by continuing to place their trust in South African Airways with their travel plans,” concluded Ramasia.
SAA will provide regular and timely updates through media statements, its official channels and through its travel trade partners.
For media enquiries, please contact:
SAA SpokespersonMr Tlali TlaliEmail: TlaliTlali@flysaa.comOffice: +27 (0)11 978-2298
Customers to contact:
Reservations Contact Centre (Make changes to a reservation to travel at a later date)+27 11 978 1111 or 0861 606 606COVID-19 Information Contact Centre (Enquire about available options, travel restrictions, and reservations change policies)+27 11 978 6699 or 0800 214 774Customer Services (Escalations, Complaints and Compliments)+27 11 978 2888General Enquiries:Website: www.flysaa.comTwitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaaTwitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_careFacebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa -
JOHANNESBURG. 18 March 2020. South African Airways (SAA) has scaled down capacity in response to the low demand for air travel. The effects of the outbreak of the Coronavirus (Covid-19) have led to travel disruptions and restrictions across the world, leading to the grounding of aircraft, releasing employees, and cancelling flights for many airlines. SAA is not immune to these realities.
In the light of the substantial fall in demand for air travel, SAA has reviewed its flight schedule and has decided to operate flights only under circumstances where its load factors and other business considerations weigh in favour of scheduling flights. However, certain flights that have been negatively impacted more than others, are consequently cancelled.
“Notwithstanding the decline in demand, SAA continues to aggressively review its schedule to match capacity with demand to the extent possible. Where feasible, we will consider options that include cancelling and merging flights,” said SAA Chief Commercial Officer, Philip Saunders.
For the period 17 until 31 March 2020, SAA has cancelled a total of 162 flights. Of these, 38 are international and 124 are regional (destinations on the African continent) flights.
For specific details or information on cancelled flights, click here.
At the same time, the airline is continuing to provide a service on the domestic, regional and international networks for those passengers whose travel is essential and cannot be avoided. For the time being, the airline will continue to operate to and from destinations unaffected by travel restrictions aimed at combatting the spread of the Coronavirus.
“Our priority is to assist those travellers wishing to repatriate to their home countries to do so as quickly and efficiently as possible. Naturally, this includes South African citizens abroad wishing to return home,” Saunders explained.
Subject to the conditions set out in the travel ban announced by government in South Africa, SAA will also facilitate the transfer of qualifying passengers to or from the destinations it flies to, which have been classified as high-risk areas.
Appreciating the impact of travel restrictions emanating from the outbreak of the Coronavirus, SAA has demonstrated its commitment towards looking after its customers by providing flexible rebooking options.
“We have updated our Customer Reservation Policy to help our passengers defer their travel plans where possible. To this end, we have offered our customers one free ticket change, in acknowledgement of travel restrictions that are not of our customers’ own making,” Saunders elaborated.
The Updated Reservation Policy now extends to the entire SAA route network.Below is a summary of the amended travel policy, which is available on www.flysaa.com.
- Must rebook / reissue ticket/s by 30 April 2020.
- Complete travel by 28 February 2021.
- Rebook same booking class with no additional collection and change fees waived.
- Additional fare collection and taxes will apply to cases of seasonality change, but change fees will be waived.
- If same booking class is not available, upgrade to lowest applicable booking class. Additional fare collection and taxes will apply but change fees will be waived.
- One (1) free change and ticket reissue permitted only.
- Tickets to be endorsed “COVID-19 SA FLT/DATE”.
- Applicable to all fare types.
- Change of cabin will not be permitted.
- Change of routing will not be permitted.
- This travel advisory waives the 72-hour rule.
- This policyis applicable to South African Airways flights only and does not apply to Mango, SA Express and Airlink, issued on SA (083) ticket stock and not on separate tickets of other airlines. This policywill apply when Mango, SA Express and Airlink forms part of the itinerary issued on SA (083) ticket stock.
- No refunds are permitted as part of this advisory.
- Other refunds are permitted according to the applicable fare rules.
- Previous No-show passengers are not eligible for this waiver.
- SAA reserves the right to withdraw or revise the terms and conditions without prior notice.
SAA regrets any inconvenience to our customers as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and we encourage all customers to visit our website www.flysaa.com for further updates.
Customers are advised to contact either their travel agents, or for direct bookings, the South African Airways Call Centre on +27 (0)11 978-1111 or 0861 606 606 or 0800 214 774 (South Africa only) or +27 (0)11 978-2888.
“We thank customers for their continued support and placing their trust in South African Airways with their travel plans,” concluded Saunders.
SAA will provide regular and timely updates through media statements and through our travel trade partners.For media enquiries, please contact:
SAA SpokespersonMr Tlali TlaliEmail: TlaliTlali@flysaa.comOffice: +27 (0)11 978-2298
Customers to contact:
South African Airways Call Centre on +27 (0)11 978-1111 or 0861 606 606 or 0800 214 774 (South Africa only) or +27 (0)11 978-2888.
General Enquiries:Website: www.flysaa.comTwitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaaTwitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_careFacebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa -
JOHANNESBURG, 13 March 2020 - Given the uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, South African Airways (SAA) is offering customers one free change in reservations on selected international routes to be used for travel on or before the 30 September 2020.
SAA will allow one free change of booking for tickets issued between 13 March to 30 April 2020 for travel on these selected routes and without penalty or change fees.
The routes applicable include those between Johannesburg and New York, Washington DC, Frankfurt, Munich and London. Itineraries must be rebooked by 30 April and travel completed by 30 September 2020.
“Our first commitment at SAA during the coronavirus pandemic is to look after our customers and staff alike. That is why we are assisting customers with this special rebooking policy. We will be regularly reviewing our policies during this challenging time to ensure that our customers can continue to travel with confidence and added reassurance,” said Philip Saunders, SAA Chief Commercial Officer.
Below is a summary of terms and conditions related to SAA’s rebooking policy on selected international routes:
- The travel itinerary must include travel between the following: Johannesburg-New York JFK, Johannesburg-Washington IAD, Johannesburg-Frankfurt, Johannesburg-Munich and Johannesburg-London LHR
- Must rebook & reissue ticket by 30 April 2020.
- Complete travel by 30 September 2020.
- Rebook with the same booking class with no additional collection and change fees will be waived.
- If same booking class is unavailable, upgrade to lowest applicable booking class. Additional fare collection and taxes will apply, but change fees will be waived.
- One free change and ticket reissue only permitted
- Applicable to all fare types.
- Change of cabin is not permitted.
- Change of routing will not be permitted.
- No refunds are permitted as part of this offer
- Previous ‘no-show’ passengers are not eligible for this waiver.
- Change of classes and routes are not permitted, without the normal penalties and associated change fees.
- The changes are applicable to South African Airways flights only issued on SA (083) ticket stock only.
- This offer is applicable to South African Airways flights only issued on SA (083) ticket stock. The offer does not apply to Mango, SA Express and Airlink.
- SAA reserves the right to withdraw or revise the conditions without prior notice.
Customers are advised to contact either their travel agents or for direct bookings, South African Airways Call Centre on 27 (0) 11 978 1111 or 086 606 606.
SAA regrets any inconvenience to our customers as a result of the coronavirus and encourages customers to visit the website www.flysaa.com for further updates and information.
We thank customers for the support by continuing to place their trust in South African Airways with their travel plans.
For further information, please contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298 -
JOHANNESBURG, 12 March 2020 – South African Airways (SAA) assures customers that its operational health and safety procedures adhere to the World Health Organisation’s protocols to protect its customers and crew from contracting the COVID-19 (coronavirus) while flying with SAA.SAA follows procedures, advice and guidelines from the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organisation, International Air Transport Association (IATA), Civil Aviation Authorities as well as the airports and customs authorities’ directives to ensure the safety of its customers.“The safety, health and wellbeing of our customers and crew is a number one priority. To ensure their wellbeing, we adhere to the following procedures:• To clean the aircraft, SAA uses the disinfectants, which have been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and are effective against the COVID-19 (coronavirus).• The cleaning protocols our teams use to clean our aircraft have been intensified and focus among other things, on high frequent touch points such as handles, seatbelt buckles, tray tables and armrests.• Hard surfaces such as lavatories, galley units and window shades are also thoroughly cleaned with multi-purpose cleaners.• The Airbus fleet is equipped with state-of-the-art, High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters that sift out and remove dust, bacteria, allergens and other unhygienic particles.• SAA crew have been trained to handle situations involving communicable diseases or any other medical emergencies on board and they work closely with ground and inflight expert medical assistance.• All our aircraft are loaded with bio-hazardous spill kits in case of a contamination event (or to handle a contamination event) and cleaning materials.“We assess all our passengers and advise that if they are feeling ill, they need to follow recommendations offered by medical professionals,” SAA said in a statement.SAA said that although it is following customs limits and guidelines, passengers are welcome to travel with antibacterial wipes and hand sanitisers.SAA crew use officially approved and industry recognised disinfectants on all flights. Cabin crew (Flight attendants) use gloves sanctioned by the food industry. The airline uses sanitation procedures for all domestic, regional and international flights. Should a passenger show any respiratory symptoms on board, i.e. coughing, sneezing, our crew will provide a surgical mask to the passenger to prevent transmission of micro-organisms.Should health authorities inform the airline that a person who travelled with SAA exhibited coronavirus symptoms, the aircraft will be taken out of service and put through a decontamination process.While SAA takes all the necessary steps to ensure that their customers enjoy a healthy flying experience, the airline advises customers to also take precautions to stay healthy while flying.The Global recommended Precautionary tips include:• Wash hands with soap often;• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser after touching any surface;• Avoid touching eyes, face and nose;• Avoid contact with coughing passengers by whatever means possible and• Stay home if sick.We thank customers for the support by continuing to place their trust in South African Airways with their travel plans.For further information, please contact:SAA SpokespersonMr Tlali TlaliEmail: TlaliTlali@flysaa.comOffice: +27 (0)11 978-2298
-
Johannesburg, the joint BRPs today announced that South African Airways SOC Limited (“SAA”) has issued a notice advising its employees of the intention to begin imminent consultations in terms of section 189 of the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995. The notices of consultation were issued to all the recognised unions in SAA for employees and management. These include SAAPA – South African Airways Pilots Association, NTM – National Transport Movement, NTM Management Forum, SACCA – South African Cabin Crew Association, SATAWU- South African Transport and Allied Workers Union, Solidarity, AUSA – Aviation Union of South Africa and NUMSA – National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa.
The BRPs have been engaging with the unions, most recently over the past weekend, in relation to this process and the intention to begin the consultation process.
“Our intention has always been to preserve as many jobs as possible through this process while still focusing on having a sustainable airline and platform for growth”, noted the joint Business Rescue Practitioners.
SAA has experienced numerous financial and business challenges, and cumulated losses of some R26 billion over the past six years. Load factors on the airline have declined steadily from August 2019 to a low of 71% in January 2020. Forward sales have also declined significantly with all markets showing negative or minimal growth, within a very competitive market. The recent marked decline in travel due to the COVID-19 virus will further exacerbate matters.
The impact of the events that have occurred in the past few months which include the lack of funding, the grounding of SAA aircraft by the SACAA in October 2019, the eight-day strike in November 2019 followed by SAA being placed under Business Rescue in December 2019 and the subsequent withdrawal of travel supplier insolvency cover, which was reinstated in February 2020, all had a significant negative impact on SAA’s Revenue. The overall result has seen a decline of R1,3 billion in Revenue with the cost base that remains more or less flat.
The changes required at SAA are therefore both structural and economic. They are urgent if liquidation is to ultimately be avoided in which event all employees will lose their jobs.
To avoid this scenario and to build a commercially viable business the BRPs propose a fundamental restructuring of its business such that it can best meet market demands and operate as a sustainable African airline. The current structure negatively affects the efficient operation of the business and, in turn, its profitability and sustainability.
To achieve these goals the strategy is to reduce loss making services and increase efficiencies, which will see a reduction in the aircraft fleet as well as services and route flow.
We wish to confirm that this process involves the employees of SAA and not those of its subsidiaries, Mango, SAA Technical and Airchefs.
Reduction in headcount
The proposed restructuring will necessitate a reduction in jobs. The section 189 process is applicable only to employees based in South Africa. The process for all other employees elsewhere in the world will be managed in line with the labour laws of their respective countries. Employees will be selected for positions within the new structure based on service length (LIFO), skills, qualification and experience in respect of the job categories indicated, taking into account employment equity objectives.
The BRPs contemplate that all 4 708 employees will be affected and the number of jobs that will exist in the restructured organisation will be the subject of the consultation process. Significant changes to conditions of employment, including remuneration and benefits, appear unavoidable and will be sought by agreement.
The success of the proposed restructuring cannot be successfully implemented without the agreement of the collective bargaining representatives of the employees (the Unions) as well as on the availability of funding to support the plan. The scope of the contemplated organisational restructure encompasses SAA airline in its entirety.
The joint BRPs’ commented: “Regrettably, this restructuring exercise, if implemented, may lead to positions being declared redundant across various job categories and in significant numbers. This may, in turn, result in the dismissal of employees employed by the Company, for operational reasons”.
A number of alternative options have been considered, including potential consolidation of management structures, reducing fixed term employees, accelerating the Long-Term Turnaround Strategy, changing of scope in certain procurement contracts and the early termination of certain procurement contracts amongst others. “None would however, assist SAA in achieving all of its required operational efficiencies,” noted the BRPs.
Consultation Process
The Company has, in accordance with the provisions of section 189A of the Labour Relations Act, elected to apply for the appointment of a CCMA facilitator to guide and assist the parties during the consultation process. The BRPs will also consult with elected representatives from non-unionised managers and non-unionised non-management employees.
The initial consultation will be held on 12 March 2020. The sixty day (60) consultation process in terms of section 189A of the Labour Relations Act will end on 8 May 2020 and accordingly the consultative process will be finalised by 8 May 2020. An expedited consultation process ending by no later than 8 April 2020 has been proposed in an effort to avoid liquidation.
It is essential that this process achieve an agreement between the Company and the Unions that will be communicated to the creditors and the lenders as part of the Business Rescue Plan, if the Business Rescue Plan is to be approved and liquidation avoided. The Business Rescue Practitioners believe that if this is achieved, SAA will be sustainable and the future of SAA can be ensured, without further fiscal assistance.
The BRPs have been engaging with various parties including the UIF in relation to alternatives that will be considered as part of the consultation process which include, training and lay off schemes.
“We must emphasize that no final decisions have yet been taken, nor will any final decisions be taken until we have exhausted consultation and hopefully reached agreement,” concluded the BRPs’
-Ends-
-
Johannesburg, 3 March 2020 – South African Airways (SAA) has extended its sale, offering discounts of up to 20% to major destinations across its route network.
These offers are available for sale from today to 5 March only so customers are encouraged to respond quickly to take advantage! The sale has been extended due to the positive uptake last week, where SAA recorded high levels of sales activity across its markets.
“Due to the tremendous response we received last week for our special offers, the sale is back by popular demand and we are extending it during this week,” said Philip Saunders, SAA Chief Commercial Officer.
The extended sale will be accessible on all SAA’s major distribution channels, at www.flysaa.com and throughout a network of travel agents both in South Africa and in other African and international markets the airline continues to serve.
“We are pleased that our customers and travel trade partners are showing renewed trust in our brand. We aim to build further on this trust by offering our customers more exciting offers over the months ahead,” said Saunders.
SAA’s sales have also been bolstered by the reinstatement of the Travel Insurance Consultants insurance services across the travel trade, which provides protection for customers choosing to fly with SAA.
The extended sale includes destinations such as New York, London, Washington DC, Perth, Frankfurt, Blantyre, Dar es Salaam, Kinshasa, Harare, Lilongwe, Lagos, Lusaka, Livingstone, Maputo, Mauritius, Nairobi, Victoria Falls and Windhoek.
Prices are all-inclusive and for return flights and are available in economy class, as well as for travel in business class.
Travellers can choose to fly between Johannesburg and New York, London, and Frankfurt from as little as R8 999. These economy class return offers are fully inclusive, providing a discount of up to 20% with Business class tickets also discounted at up to 20%, with fares to New York from R49 927, London from R37 178 and Frankfurt from R32 902.
For further information, customers can book on www.flysaa.com or contact their nearest travel agent. T’s and C’s apply.
The airline’s revised route network will ensure customers keep reaching their destinations while enjoying SAA’s 4-star experience along the way.
For further information, please contact:SAA SpokespersonMr Tlali TlaliEmail: TlaliTlali@flysaa.comOffice: +27 (0)11 978-2298 -
JOHANNESBURG. 3 MARCH 2020 – As the world commemorated World Wildlife Day on Tuesday, South African Airways said it would help intensify the fight against the global illegal wildlife trafficking.As a new member of the USAID Reducing Opportunities for Unlawful Transport of Endangered Species (ROUTES), the national carrier said it would work hard to reduce the trafficking seizure of 42% of wildlife animals checked in luggage, 4% hidden in passenger clothing, 23% in air flight, 4% in mail and 27% recorded as unknown.SAA employees are being trained in methods to detect wildlife smugglers and their activities and to report these to the relevant authorities.USAID ROUTES said Africa is a significant source of smuggled live animals and wildlife products.For example, in 2019 more than 103 wildlife animals were seized in three countries across the African continent. Most commonly, air traffic of wildlife animals in the African skies involves:• Ivory moved from East Africa, through the Middle East, into Asia;• Rhino horn moved from Southern Africa, through East Africa and the Middle East, into Asia;• Pangolin scales moved from West Africa, through Europe, into Asia;• Tortoises moved from Madagascar, through East Africa, into Asia;• Abalone moved from Southern Africa straight to Asia and• Nile crocodiles moved from the Horn of Africa into the Middle East.Now SAA said it was committed to taking action to protect wildlife and their natural heritage.SAA has joined the fight against illegal wildlife trade by adopting the Illegal Wildlife Trade Module of the IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) Programme. IEnvA is an equivalent of the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), but in terms of the environment rather than safety. SAA is audited, much like IOSA, and certified as IEnvA compliant. The airline was recently successfully audited through the Illegal Wildlife Trade module of the IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) Programme to ensure that the correct systems and procedures are in place.In its effort to fight against illegal wild-life trade, SAA recently conducted an awareness campaign among its employees to demonstrate how a trained dog can reinforce detection efforts to combat wildlife trafficking in the air transport industry.ENDS.For further information, please contact:SAA SpokespersonMr Tlali TlaliEmail: TlaliTlali@flysaa.comOffice: +27 (0)11 978-2298
-
The South African Airways (SAA) Business Rescue Practitioners (BRPs) Siviwe Dongwana and Les Matuson, requested an extension from lenders and creditors to extend the publication of the Business Rescue Plan to 31 March 2020.
In terms of Section 150 (5) of the Companies Act, lenders and creditors were requested to agree on an extension by the BRPs’ on 26 February 2020. The emailed letter asked creditors to vote for or against the extension and email their votes by close of business on 27 February 2020.
The BRPs confirm that a further extension for publication of the Plan from 28 February to 31 March 2020 has been approved by the requisite majority of creditors holding voting interests in the company.
The reasons for the required extension
The practitioners and SAA are in the process of finalisation of the proposed restructuring plan and the steps required to implement the proposed restructuring plan which will be encompassed in the draft Business Rescue Plan. The employees committee, creditors committee and the Department of Public Enterprises will be provided with an opportunity to make representations to the practitioners regarding the draft Business Rescue Plan and to consult the practitioners in respect of such representations. After the practitioners have considered and discussed the aforesaid representations the Business Rescue Plan will be published by the practitioners and will be voted upon by creditors at a meeting convened for this purpose. The meeting of creditors to decide whether to approve the Business Rescue Plan must be convened within 10 days of the date of the publication of the Business Rescue Plan.
“We are still in the process of finalising the steps to implement the proposed restructuring option as well as the anticipated effect the plan will have on stakeholders, including the estimated return to creditors,” the BRPs noted.
“We believe that a further extension of one month will allow for sufficient time for us to finalise the Plan, given the complexity and extent of engagement that is required in a business of this size. We then intend to communicate the Plan to the creditors committee, the employees committee and the shareholder, prior to the formal publication of the Plan”.
-Ends-
-
Johannesburg, 27 February 2020 – South African Airways (SAA) is offering irresistible fares to major destinations.
“At South African Airways, the time for change has come. Change that sets a new flight path and prepares our business for take-off. We’re changing our route network to be smarter and more efficient whilst ensuring our best customer service. Most importantly though, is that we’re changing to keep you flying,” SAA said in its first advertising campaign since the business rescue process began in December 2019.
SAA is offering customers three days to take advantage of competitive fares to New York, London, Washington DC, Perth, Frankfurt, Blantyre, Dar es Salaam, Kinshasa, Harare, Lilongwe, Lagos, Lusaka, Livingstone, Maputo, Mauritius, Nairobi, Victoria Falls and Windhoek. The fare deals are available in Economy Class as well as for travel in Business Class.
From Wednesday, February 26, to Friday, February 28, travellers can book all-inclusive return flights to a number of regional and international destinations including New York and London from R8999, and Lagos and Lusaka from R4554. Customers can book on www.flysaa.com or contact their nearest travel agent. T’s and C’s apply.
The airline’s revised route network – which comprises of its most successful routes, will ensure customers keep reaching their destinations while enjoying SAA’s 4-star experience along the way.
For further information, please contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298 -
JOHANNESBURG, 14 FEBRUARY 2020 - South African Airways (SAA) is pleased to announce that Travel Insurance Consultants (TIC) have reinstated the travel supplier insolvency cover on the airline. This milestone represents a significant step forward for SAA, the global travel agency community and customers alike.
In practice, this means that both TIC and the Bryte Insurance Company are now offering these essential insurance services across the travel trade, and providing protection for customers choosing to fly with SAA.
TIC, a division of Santam Limited said that this development is based on their confidence that the decisions taken during the business rescue process are in the best interests of stabilising SAA.
From Friday February 14, TIC will provide travel insolvency cover on all policies sold on SAA tickets. Flight Centre, through all its wholly-owned brands, including; Flight Centre Travel Group, FCM Travel Solutions, Corporate Traveller, Flight Centre Business Travel, Cruiseabout, and Flight Centre Associates will start selling SAA from today.
“This is an important day for SAA. Customers can now purchase tickets with renewed confidence in the knowledge that they are protected on every step of their journey through either TIC or Bryte Insurance,” said Deon Fredericks, Acting CFO of SAA.
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298 -
Fort Lauderdale, FL (February 10, 2020) – South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa and a Skytrax 4-Star rated airline, is offering special fares just in time to give the gift of South Africa to someone special this Valentine’s Day. Round-trip Economy Class fares start from $829* (restrictions apply) from New York-JFK and Washington D.C.- Dulles to Cape Town and $879* (restrictions apply) to Johannesburg from New York-JFK (restrictions apply). This fare is applicable for travel between
April 1 and May 31, 2020, with tickets purchased by February 19, 2020.South Africa is an incredibly romantic destination filled with breathtaking views, charming villas and hotels, exotic wildlife and a variety of rich cultures. Just imagine a hot-air balloon ride for two over the scenic Cape Winelands, a romantic dinner at one of Johannesburg’s lavish restaurants or a luxurious safari surrounded by Africa’s natural beauty and wildlife. Travelers will have even more to love by starting their journey aboard the quiet comfort of our new state-of- the art Airbus A350, now flying nonstop to
Johannesburg from New York-JFK Airport. Onboard, customers will enjoy a brand new inflight entertainment system with high definition touch screens, USB chargers and access to PC power ports at every seat, improved LED lighting, and optimized cabin pressure and temperature controls, which allow you to feel relaxed and refreshed upon arrival.“A life-changing trip to Africa would make the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for someone special.
These fares will enable travelers to enjoy South Africa and the exquisite experiences it offers in Cape Town,Johannesburg or other areas throughout the country,” said Todd Neuman, executive vice president, North America for South African Airways. “It’s also a great time to book travel, not just for our low fares, but for the favorable currency exchange rates for North American travelers, whose dollars will go much further in
South Africa than most other destinations throughout the world. “South African Airways is one of Africa’s most awarded airlines, honored with a 4-star rating for 17 consecutive years by Skytrax. South African Airways offers the most daily flights from the U.S. to South Africa with nonstop service from New York-JFK Airport and direct service from Washington, D.C.-Dulles Airport to Johannesburg via Accra, Ghana. Through our Johannesburg hub, SAA links the world to over 75 destinations across the African continent and Africa’s Indian Ocean islands.To book this special fare, travelers should visit www.flysaa.com, call SAA Reservations at 1- (800) 722-9675 or contact their professional travel consultant. As one of the leading airlines in Africa, SAA also offers affordable low fares and convenient flight schedules to other exciting destinations throughout the continent.
About South African Airways
South African Airways (SAA), South Africa’s national flag carrier and the continent’s most awarded airline, serves over 75 destinations worldwide in partnership with SA Express, Airlink and its low cost carrier Mango. In North America, SAA operates daily nonstop flights from New York-JFK and direct flights from Washington D.C.-IAD (via Accra, Ghana) to Johannesburg. SAA has partnerships with United Airlines, Air Canada, JetBlue Airways, Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines and American Airlines, which offer convenient connections from more than 100 cities in the U.S. and Canada to SAA’s flights. SAA is a Star Alliance member and the recipient of the Skytrax 4-Star rating for 17 consecutive years.
Like South African Airways on Facebook here
Follow South African Airways Twitter here
Media Contact
Todd Neuman
Telephone: +1 (954) 769-5001
Email: toddneuman@flysaa.com
###
*Restrictions:
The $829 fare is valid for Economy Class roundtrip travel from New York (JFK) or Washington Dulles (IAD) to Cape Town (CPT) for travel 4/1/2020-5/31/2020 with a blackout period from 4/10/2020-4/19/2020. The $879 fare is valid for Economy Class midweek travel (Mon-Thu) roundtrip travel from New York (JFK) to Johannesburg (JNB) for travel 4/1/2020-5/31/2020.Fares must be purchased within 72 hours of reservation being made, or byFebruary 19, 2020 whichever is first. Minimum stay: Must stay over one Sunday for fares to apply. Maximum stay: Return travel must commence on or before 07 June 2020. Seats are limited and may not be available on all flights. Cancellations before/after departure: fares and carrier-imposed fees (YR/YQ/Q) are non-refundable. Date
change fee: $300 plus any applicable fare difference. Administrative fees may also apply. Infant (not occupying a seat) discount - Pays 10% of the adult fare.Baggage and optional service fees may apply. Reservations made 7 days or more prior to scheduled departure may be canceled without penalty up to 24 hours after the reservation is made. Fares, fees, rules and offers are subject to change without notice. Other restrictions may apply. -
Johannesburg, The joint BRPs of SAA, Mr. Les Matuson and Mr. Siviwe Dongwana have noted the comments made by the relevant unions, the various Provincial Governments, the DPE and the SACP regarding our recent actions with respect to restructuring SAA into a financially sustainable entity.
“The decisions we took and informed the public of this week were taken in the best interests of SAA. They are intended to make the airline commercially and operationally sustainable, free from the requirement of future funding from the Government post the implementation of the restructure,” commented the BRPs.
The actions are aimed at improving SAA’s balance sheet which is intended to create a platform for a strong and sustainable airline and so ensure that the company is more attractive for potential strategic equity partners.
The BRPs concluded, “We recognize the concerns raised, especially around the domestic routes. We will continue to engage with stakeholders, with a commitment to include inputs into the final business rescue plan, which is due to be published by the end of this month.”
-Ends-
Louise Brugman, 083 504 1186, on behalf of the Joint Business Rescue Partners
-
JOHANNESBURG, 8 February 2020 - South African Airways (SAA) was honoured to bring Miss Universe 2019, Zozibini Tunzi back home aboard its brand new Airbus A350-900 from New York on Saturday.
Her sparkling presence aboard SA204 added excitement on 15-hour journey between New York and OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg as customers interacted and took pictures with her.
“SAA is more than an airline, we - as Zozibini - are African first. We are a proud carrier of Africa’s hopes and dreams and its unlimited potential, which leaves us bursting with pride as we welcome our daughter back home and celebrate her global success,” said Zuks Ramasia, SAA’s ACEO.
“Our crew described the opportunity to fly a South African born Miss Universe as one of their proudest and memorable experience, one that will remain an indelible highlight in their careers,” said Ramasia.
SAA flew Zozibini back to South Africa as one of the “Homecoming” partners to showcase pride, patriotism and embrace African heritage.In December, she flew SAA to Sao Paolo to participate in the Miss Universe contest as arranged by the Miss SA Pageant organisers.
The 25-year-old student hails from Tsolo in the Eastern Cape. She was crowned Miss Universe 2019 after previously being crowned Miss South Africa 2019. She is the third woman from South Africa to win the title, and the first black woman since Leila Lopes was crowned Miss Universe 2011.
SAA will fly the homegrown beauty queen back to New York where she lives during her reign as Miss Universe. On her return trip, she will again travel on the state-of-the-art aircraft, of which SAA has four in its fleet.
Like Zozibini, customers can enjoy the airline’s four A350s superior features such as a quieter cabin and relaxing in-flight experience including the all-new In-flight Entertainment (IFE), extra-legroom seats in Economy Class and lie-flat beds in Business Class.
The aircraft, which is environmentally friendly, with improved fuel-efficiency can fly further than any other aircraft in commercial service.
The introduction of the A350s will contribute to SAA’s operational efficiencies and cost reduction, and forms part of the ongoing fleet renewal programme. For example, through the A350s, we will lower our operational costs, and save on our fuel consumption by 25% and also lower our maintenance costs by 40% over a five-year period.
ENDS
ISSUED BY SAA
Media to contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298
General Enquiries:
Website: www.flysaa.com
Twitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaa
Twitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_care
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa -
The flight schedule for February remains unchanged. Please consult the website for further information (follow this link: https://www.flysaa.com/au-traveladvisory)
The joint Business Rescue Practitioners (BRPs) of South African Airways (SAA) today announced further initiatives to support the airline’s transformation into a sustainable and profitable business.
The BRPs, Les Matuson and Siviwe Dongwana, have worked closely with key stakeholders including industry specialists, government, creditors and executive management to develop a comprehensive restructuring programme which will culminate in a Business Rescue Plan to be published in late February and subsequently presented to creditors for approval.
In line with SAA’s commitment to take urgent action to conserve cash, and create a viable platform for a successful future, key measures need to be implemented now.
These measures include targeted changes to the route network, deployment of more fuel-efficient aircraft, optimisation of organisational structures and renegotiation of key contracts with suppliers.
“The initiatives we are taking now will strengthen SAA’s business. We believe that this should provide reassurance to our loyal customers that SAA is moving in the right direction. We are focused on our mandate to restore SAA’s commercial health and create an airline that South Africans will be proud of”, commented the BRPs.
Changes to SAA’s Network
Following a careful analysis of SAA’s liquidity challenges and after consultations with all relevant stakeholders, the BRPs have identified which routes will be retained to drive the restructured national carrier towards profitability.
SAA will continue to operate all international services between Johannesburg and Frankfurt, London Heathrow, New York, Perth and Washington via Accra.
Regional services to be retained include from Johannesburg to Blantyre, Dar es Salaam, Harare, Kinshasa, Lagos, Lilongwe, Lusaka, Maputo, Mauritius, Nairobi, Victoria Falls, Livingstone and Windhoek.
On 29th February 2020, SAA will close the following regional and international services from Johannesburg to Abidjan via Accra, Entebbe, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Luanda, Munich, Ndola, and Sao Paulo.
On the domestic route network, SAA will continue to serve Cape Town on a reduced basis.
All other domestic destinations, including Durban, East London and Port Elizabeth, will cease to be operated by SAA on 29th February 2020. Domestic routes operated by Mango will not be affected by the changes.
All customers booked on any cancelled international and regional routes will receive a full refund. Customers booked on cancelled domestic flights will be re-accommodated on services operated by Mango.
SAA does not intend to make any further significant network changes. Passengers and travel agents can therefore feel confident about booking future travel with South African Airways.
The flight schedule for February remains unchanged. Please consult the website for further information.
ASSETS
To improve the airline’s liquidity, rationalisation programmes are under consideration for SAA’s subsidiaries, as well as the sale of selected assets. The BRPs will continue to explore viable investment opportunities with potential investors in respect of SAA.
JOBS
The joint BRPs have stated that every effort is being taken to limit the impact of job losses in SAA and its subsidiaries.
“It is our intention to restructure the business in a manner that we can retain as many jobs as possible. This will help provide a platform to a viable and sustainable future. However, a reduction in the number of employees will unfortunately be necessary”, said Matuson and Dongwana.
The BRPs will engage labour, both organized and non-organized, to reach a solution necessary for a sustainable airline going forward.
The BRPs wish to underline their support of the President’s proclamation for the Special Investigating Unit to examine some of the airline’s contracts. This measure will help in assessing viable agreements and in reducing SAA’s cost base.
The decisions and actions announced today are aimed at improving SAA’s balance sheet, creating a platform for a strong and sustainable airline and ensuring that the company is more attractive for potential strategic equity partners.
ENDS
Louise Brugman, 083 504 1186, on behalf of the Joint Business Rescue Partners
To see the revised SAA route network, please access this link: https://www.flysaa.com/de-traveladvisory
-
JOHANNESBURG, 30 JANUARY 2020 – On Tuesday 28th January, the SAA business rescue practitioners secured further post commencement funding (PCF) of R3.5 billion from the Development Bank of Southern Africa.
The purpose of the funding is to provide a bridge to facilitate the development and publication of the Business Rescue Plan by the Business Rescue Practitioners by the end of February for presentation to creditors shortly thereafter.
The conservation of cash through various cost reduction measures is critical to running an efficient airline and to create a platform on which a future for a restructured entity can be built.
The BRPs have been and will continue to review all third party contracts with the entity, with the intention to cancel any onerous contracts or renegotiate others into commercially accepted terms.
In addition, flight demand has been scrutinised to ensure SAA is running efficient flights. To this end, SAA will therefore cancel and consolidate selected scheduled flights where there is low demand based on current forward bookings for the month of February.
Recognising the importance of advance planning for our customers, it is thus important that we provide advance notice as possible to affected customers.
Philip Saunders, Chief Commercial Officer, noted, “We are committed to accommodating all affected customers on alternative flights, operated by the airline and its Star Alliance partners. Any inconvenience or delays are intended to be minimal.”
Travel agents, alliance partners and relevant stakeholders have been notified of these operational changes. SAA appreciates their on-going support in re-accommodating our passengers.
The below list of flights are affected:
Johannesburg (JNB) – Durban (DUR)
SA575 Depart 1900 Arrive 2005 Dates: 01, 05, 06, 08, 13 February
SA575 Depart 1830 Arrive 1935 Dates: 07 February
SA527 Depart 0630 Arrive 0735 Dates: 21 February
Durban (DUR) – Johannesburg (JNB)
SA528 Depart 0630 Arrive 0735 Dates: 02 , 06 , 07 , 09 , 14 , 21 February
SA580 Depart 2005 Arrive 2110 Dates: 07 February
Johannesburg (JNB) – Cape Town (CPT)
SA353 Depart 1600 Arrive 1805 Dates: 03 , 04 , 11 , 17 , 24 February
SA313 Depart 0850 Arrive 1055 Dates: 04 , 11 , 25 February
SA303 Depart 0530 Arrive 0735 Dates: 05 , 13 , 17 , 26 February
Cape Town (CPT) – Johannesburg (JNB)
SA366 Depart 1850 Arrive 2045 Dates: 03 , 04 , 11 , 17 , 24 February
SA326 Depart 1135 Arrive 1330 Dates: 04 , 11 , 25 February
SA316 Depart 0820 Arrive 1015 Dates: 05 , 13 , 17 , 26 February
Johannesburg (JNB) – East London (ELS)
SA477 Depart 1855 Arrive 2020 Dates: 05 , 06 , 12 , 19 , 26 February
East London (ELS) – Johannesburg (JNB)
SA472 Depart 0630 Arrive 0755 Dates: 06 , 07 , 13 , 20 , 27 February
Johannesburg (JNB) – Livingstone (LVI)
SA048 Depart 1040 Arrive 1220 Dates: 01 , 05 , 08 , 10 , 11 , 15 , 18 , 19 , 26 , 27 February
Livingstone (LVI) – Johannesburg (JNB)
SA049 Depart 1300 Arrive 1440 Dates: 01 , 05 , 08 , 10 , 11 , 15 , 18 , 19 , 26 , 27 February
Johannesburg (JNB) – Kinshasa (FIH)
SA050 Depart 1010 Arrive 1255 Dates: 03 February
Kinshasa (FIH) – Johannesburg (JNB)
SA051 Depart 1345 Arrive 1830 Dates: 03 February
Johannesburg (JNB) – Dar Es Salaam (DAR)
SA188 Depart 1335 Arrive 1755 Dates: 03 , 10 , 17 February
Dar Es Salaam (DAR) – Johannesburg (JNB)
SA189 Depart 0600 Arrive 0830 Dates: 04 , 11 , 18 February
Johannesburg (JNB) – Nairobi (NBO)
SA180 Depart 1530 Arrive 2030 Dates: 01 , 08 , 22 February
Nairobi (NBO) - Johannesburg (JNB)
SA181 Depart 0835 Arrive 1140 Dates: 02 , 09 , 23 February
Johannesburg (JNB) – Windhoek (WDH)
SA074 Depart 0950 Arrive 1145 Dates: 06 February
SA076 Depart 1430 Arrive 1625 Dates: 05 , 12 , 19 , 26 February
Windhoek (WDH) – Johannesburg (JNB)
SA075 Depart 1235 Arrive 1420 Dates: 06 February
SA077 Depart 1715 Arrive 1900 Dates: 05 , 12 , 19 , 26 February
Johannesburg (JNB) – Accra (ACC) – Washington (IAD)
SA209 Depart 1805 Arrive 2205/Depart 2320 Arrive 0600 Dates: 16 , 18 February
Washington (IAD) – Accra (ACC) – Johannesburg (JNB)
SA210 Depart 1740 Arrive 0835/Depart 0935 Arrive 1725 Dates: 17 , 19 February
ENDS
ISSUED BY SAA
Media to contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298General Enquiries:
Website: www.flysaa.com
Twitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaa
Twitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_care
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa
-
JOHANNESBURG, 28 January 2020. The business rescue practitioners of South African Airways SOC Ltd (the Practitioners), supported by the Departments of Public Enterprises (DPE) and National Treasury (NT), have been successful in obtaining the balance of the post commencement funding (PCF) required to meet the short term liquidity requirements of the airline for the period until the business rescue plan (the Plan) is published and adopted. This Plan is required in terms of Section 150 of the Companies Act and is the responsibility of the Practitioners.
The advancement of the funds comes on the back of the business rescue process which began on 5 December 2019, with the local commercial banks providing the initial PCF of R2 billion in addition to the existing exposures to SAA.
Discussions held with financial institutions have been fruitful with the Development Bank of Southern Africa offering to provide the next tranche of PCF, for a total amount of R3.5 billion, with an immediate draw-down of R2 billion. Furthermore, funding for the restructuring phase after the Plan is adopted is being considered by potential funders.
The restructuring of SAA will provide an opportunity to develop a sustainable, competitive and efficient airline with a strategic equity partner remaining the objective of government through this exercise and will result in the preservation of jobs wherever possible. SAA is a key strategic asset which needs to be positioned to provide reliable connectivity to markets within South Africa, the African continent as well as servicing selected international routes.
Stakeholders of the airline should now have comfort that the rescue process is on a significantly sounder footing, and that passengers and travel agencies and airline partners may continue to book air travel on SAA with confidence.
-Ends-
ISSUED BY SAA
Media to contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298General Enquiries:
Website: www.flysaa.com
Twitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaa
Twitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_care
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa
-
JOHANNESBURG, 21 January 2020. South African Airways (SAA) new Airbus A350-900 operated its first international flight from O.R Tambo International (ORTIA) airport to New York’s John F. Kennedy (JFK) International Airport.
“This inaugural flight was the first that we plan to introduce on our international routes in the near future. We are excited that our passengers will enjoy the A350s superior features such as a quieter cabin and relaxing in-flight experience including the all-new In-flight Entertainment (IFE), extra-legroom seats in Economy Class and lie-flat beds in Business Class,” said Zuks Ramasia, SAA’s Acting CEO.
The aircraft, which is environmentally friendly, with improved fuel-efficiency can fly further than any other aircraft in commercial service. It is one of the four new Airbus A350-900s that SAA added to its fleet in October 2019. It replaces the Airbus A340-600, which was being used on the route.
“All the A350-900s are equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. Since entering service in 2015, the Trent XWB engines have flown more than five million hours, and are now regarded as the world’s most efficient large aero-engines.
“The introduction of the A350s will contribute to our operational efficiencies and cost reduction, and forms part of the ongoing fleet renewal programme.
“For example, through the A350s, we will lower our operational costs, and save on our fuel consumption by 25% and also lower our maintenance costs by 40% over a five-year period,” said Ramasia.
Ends.
ISSUED BY SAA
Media to contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298General Enquiries:
Website: www.flysaa.com
Twitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaa
Twitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_care
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa
-
JOHANNESBURG, 21 JANUARY 2020 – South African Airways (SAA) is in the process of consolidating selected domestic flights between the airline’s main hub, Oliver Tambo International Airport Johannesburg (JNB) and Cape Town (CPT), as well as between Johannesburg (JNB) and Durban’s King Shaka (DUR) airports.
SAA is working closely with its sister airline, Mango, to re-accommodate passengers on alternative services operated by both airlines to minimise disruption, and thereby ensure passengers reach their destination as quickly as possible.
The following domestic flights operated by SAA have been cancelled:
Johannesburg (JNB) – Cape Town (CPT)
SA303 Depart 0530 Arrive 0735 Dates: 20, 21 & 24 January
SA307 Depart 0700 Arrive 0905 Dates: 21 January
Cape Town (CPT) – Johannesburg (JNB)
SA316 Depart 0820 Arrive 1015 Dates: 20, 21 & 24 January
SA322 Depart 0950 Arrive 1145 Dates: 21 January
Johannesburg (JNB) – Durban (DUR)
SA527 Depart 0630 Arrive 0735 Dates: 20, 21, 22 & 23 January
SA543 Depart 0955 Arrive 1100 Dates: 20, 21, 22 & 23 January
SA571 Depart 1655 Arrive 1800 Dates: 20 & 21 January
Durban (DUR) – Johannesburg (JNB)
SA534 Depart 0805 Arrive 0910 Dates: 20, 21, 22 & 23 January
SA550 Depart 1130 Arrive 1235 Dates: 20, 21, 22 & 23 January
SA578 Depart 1840 Arrive 1945 Dates: 20 & 21 January
On the international network, SAA is cancelling selected services between Johannesburg (JNB) and Munich (MUC). SAA will re-accommodate passengers on its services between Johannesburg (JNB) and Frankfurt (FRA) as well as London Heathrow (LHR). Some passengers travelling to Munich, and others travelling via Munich to other destinations, will be re-accommodated for some of their journey on partner airlines in the Star Alliance to minimise delays.
The following flights have been cancelled:
Johannesburg (JNB) – Munich (MUC)
SA264 Depart 2115 Arrive 0700 Dates: 20, 21, 22, 23 & 24 January
Munich (MUC) – Johannesburg (JNB)
SA265 Depart 2030 Arrive 0820 Dates: 21, 22, 23, 24 & 25 January
These decisions are in line with SAA’s usual policy of reviewing flights and consolidating services with low demand. Furthermore, during the current process of Business Rescue, these cancellations represent a responsible strategy to conserve cash and optimise the airline’s position ahead of any further capital investment.
The consolidation on the Cape Town route is also necessary as SAA has been operating training flights for pilots on the new state-of-the-art Airbus 350-900 aircraft on this route, before transferring the new planes to international routes.
The introduction of these larger aircraft has resulted in temporary surplus capacity on the route.
SAA will be reviewing further possible flight schedule amendments over the coming days. Any operational changes will be communicated to our travel trade partners and customers at the earliest opportunity and passengers will be re-accommodated on other airlines wherever possible.
Ends.
ISSUED BY SAA
Media to contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298General Enquiries:
Website: www.flysaa.com
Twitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaa
Twitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_care
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa
-
JOHANNESBURG, 20 JANUARY 2020 - South African Airways (SAA) wishes to assure its customers and stakeholders that flights to all its destinations continue as normal.
The airline is aware of media reports suggesting that it will cease operations. SAA is always committed to transparently communicate with all stakeholders, including customers, about any material or significant operational changes that may have an impact on flight schedules.
Where there may be flight schedule amendments, such operational changes will be managed and communicated in accordance with the industry norms and practices.Ends.
SAA Spokesperson
Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 11 978 2298 -
JOHANNESBURG, 16 January 2020 – South African Airways (SAA) has put some of its aircraft up for sale to accommodate the new Airbus A350-900s the airline recently added to its fleet.
In a tender on the airline’s website, SAA said it was selling nine wide-body aircraft - - five Airbus A340-300s and four Airbus A340-600s - - and 15 spare engines and four Auxiliary Power Units, a device used to provide energy.
“After we received the four new Airbus A350-900, it has become necessary for us to sell our older models to accommodate the new models with superior features such as the quieter cabin, relaxing in-flight environment and more extra-legroom seats in economy class and lie-flat beds in business Class,” said Zuks Ramasia, SAA’s Acting CEO.
“The decision to sell the aircraft has nothing to do with the business rescue process. For some time we had planned to replace our four-engine aircraft with new generation and more efficient aircraft as part of our fleet renewal programme,” said Ramasia.
“When we received five A330-300s in late 2017- early 2018 we had already planned to retire five A340s at that time, but due to the operational fleet undergoing maintenance, the retirement of the aircraft was postponed. Now is the time to sell the aircraft,” she said.
Ramasia said with the new A350s which will start operating on its international route network next week, replacing the A340s has become possible, hence the national carrier advertised the sale of the nine aircraft on 10 January. The closing date for the tender is 30 January at 11.00am SA time.
The aircraft on sale used to operate on regional and international routes, which will now be flown by the A330s and A350-900s.
ISSUED BY SAA
Media to contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298General Enquiries:
Website: www.flysaa.com
Twitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaa
Twitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_care
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa
-
JOHANNESBURG, 7 January 2020 - South African Airways has been named as one of the top performing airlines globally for on-time performance (OTP) by travel data and analytics company, Cirium.
SAA was ranked fourth in the category for Middle East and Africa mainline carriers, ahead of some of its major competitors, making SAA the leading African carrier on OTP.
“According to the International Air Transport Association’s benchmark of OTP, an airline is on-time when it arrives within 15 minutes of the scheduled time of arrival or departs within 15 minutes of the scheduled departure time. We are excited that most of the time we adhere to these deadlines,” said Zuks Ramasia, SAA Acting CEO.
SAA’s overall on-time performance across its route network is 85.69%.
“We are encouraged by this latest announcement about our performance. It is an endorsement and occasion to celebrate great achievement, especially when judged against our own peers, globally. Customers always have a choice and those who elect to fly with us recognise that we are a dependable airline. The results speak volumes about consistency and reliability of our operations – a key feature underlying our customer value proposition. This is an important attribute of our business,” said Ramasia.
As a member of the largest international airline network, Star Alliance, SAA serves 57 destinations within South Africa and across the continent in partnership with SA Express, Airlink and its low-cost carrier, Mango. SAA also flies to eight intercontinental destinations from its Johannesburg hub.
“We place a high premium on punctuality as measured through OTP. It is one of our most important customer impact performance indicators. The more punctual we are, the happier the customers we keep. Any flight delays could lead to costs for the airline and inconvenience to the customer. Delays could snowball into more delays, requiring more re-planning to recover the schedule for the rest of the day and bring inefficiencies,” concluded Ramasia.
Cirium works with over 90 per cent of the world’s top 50 airlines. The company, which has published its annual On-time Performance (OTP) Review for the past 11 years, provides a definitive list of the world’s best performing airlines and airports for on-time flight operations.
Jeremy Bowen, Cirium CEO, said: “Achieving world-class customer satisfaction and industry-leading product differentiation is about more than just competitively priced tickets and flight availability. When choosing whom to fly with, savvy travellers also now consider airline punctuality and operational reliability.
“We believe Cirium’s On-Time Performance Review 2019 will inspire airlines and airports to continue innovating to improve their performance. By embracing digital transformation and leveraging data to its full potential, Cirium can help the aviation industry harness its power to improve on-time performance and enhance the passenger experience,” Bowen said.
ISSUED BY SAA
About South African Airways:
South African Airways (SAA) is the leading carrier in Africa, serving 57 destinations, in partnership with SA Express, Airlink, and its low-cost carrier, Mango, within South Africa and across the continent, and eight intercontinental routes from its Johannesburg hub. It is a member of the largest international airline network, Star Alliance. SAA’s core business is the provision of passenger airline and cargo transport services together with related services, which are provided through SAA and its wholly owned subsidiaries: SAA Technical; Mango its low-cost carrier; and Air Chefs, the catering entity of SAA. SAA is the winner of the Best Airline Staff Service award in the Africa category; this shows that our customer-facing employees are our true brand ambassadors who made a difference to millions of travelling customers.
Media to contact:
SAA Spokesperson
Mr Tlali Tlali
Email: TlaliTlali@flysaa.com
Office: +27 (0)11 978-2298General Enquiries:
Website: www.flysaa.com
Twitter (Primary): @flysaa - https://twitter.com/flysaa
Twitter (Customer Service): @flysaa_care - https://twitter.com/flysaa_care
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flysaa
Full on-time report: cirium.com/on-time-performance
Please view previous news and media releases here.
