The sudden termination of the deal between South African Airways (SAA) and Takatso has dealt a significant blow to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s privatization strategy and raised doubts about the future of struggling public enterprises. The government has faced opposition within its ranks concerning privatization and will need to rethink its approach and draw in more private investment. The termination of the deal marks the beginning of a new episode where the outcomes remain unpredictable.
NUMSA, a union representing over 300,000 workers, is urgently calling for a resolution to the sale of Mango Airlines, a subsidiary of South African Airways, which was forced to halt its flights due to financial difficulties. The union emphasizes the need to retain employment opportunities and sustain the airline’s offerings, seeing Mango Airlines as a crucial player in South Africa’s wider economic and connectivity aspirations. Recent developments include a court’s refusal of a ministerial appeal regarding Mango’s sale, and the focus has shifted to a provision in the Public Finance Management Act.
South African Airways (SAA) is reintroducing direct flights from Johannesburg to Perth in March 2024, after successfully procuring additional aircraft and undergoing a business rehabilitation process. Travelers can now anticipate a smoother intercontinental journey with the return of this direct service, which was previously suspended due to multiple stopovers. The reinstatement of this connectivity reflects SAA’s commitment to enlarging and improving its services, and also benefits the numerous South Africans living in Perth, who have a strong connection to their homeland.
South African Airways is offering free flights for kids aged 2 to 11 with an adult as part of its festive season travel promotion. The offer is valid until December 1 and can be used for travel between December 1, 2023, and January 31, 2024. The promotion is primarily focused on Cape Town and Durban, two of South Africa’s most vibrant cities, showcasing the country’s cultural diversity and stunning natural beauty.
To enhance travel options, Lufthansa Group has entered into a codeshare agreement with South African Airways (SAA) and Airlink. With this alliance, Lufthansa Group airline passengers can access several onward connections in South Africa and Namibia via domestic flights on SAA and Airlink.
South African Airways (SAA) has recently announced its first intercontinental route since its relaunch in September 2021. SAA will connect Johannesburg and Cape Town to São Paulo, Brazil, marking a significant step forward for the company. ### SAA’s Return to the International Stage
The Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) has welcomed the Competition Commission’s conditional approval for the strategic equity partner transaction between South African Airways (SAA) and Takatso Aviation Proprietary Limited. This deal will result in Takatso acquiring a 51% shareholding in the airline, which is a significant turning point for the revitalization process of SAA.