This archive report was first published on 15 September 2021.
South African Airways (SAA) is poised to take to the skies once again on September 23, marking the end of a 16-month hiatus. The airline's return comes despite repeated government bailouts and the implementation of a business rescue plan.
According to sources, the operational failure of SAA has been attributed to corruption and the devastating impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. The airline's interim chief executive officer, Thomas Kgokolo, acknowledged that winning back the trust of stakeholders would be an uphill task.
However, Kgokolo expressed optimism about the airline's ability to turn things around, citing the confidence and enthusiasm of the staff as key factors in achieving the set goals. He also noted that the airline was ready to rise above its difficult history and regain its place in the industry.
As part of its efforts to reclaim its top spot in the local air transport industry and on the continent, SAA has adopted a customer-centered 'new business and operating philosophy.' This approach aims to build trust by creating real connections with customers, adopting an internal culture of collaboration, and containing costs.
On September 27, daily return flights to Harare, Lusaka, and Maputo will be introduced, while three weekly flights to Accra and Kinshasa have also been confirmed. However, there has been no announcement on servicing European routes.
