South African Airways has added new routes to its network that includes flights to Mauritius which began on 21 November. The latest addition will be served 2X-weekly with the A320 aircraft as the airline looks to rebuild its new international strategy.
The Star Alliance member also plans to begin flights to Lagos, Nigeria to be served 3X weekly to commence from next month on 12.
Thomas Kgokolo, Interim CEO of South African Airways said: “This specific destination takes SAA into one of the biggest travel markets in Africa and we’re delighted that we are again able to resume operations, providing a link between Africa’s two biggest economies.”
“Our intention is to continue to develop our route network driven by passenger demand and revenue potential. We are constantly evaluating opportunities in the local, regional and international markets.”
Although SAA is adding a slew of new routes, the airline seems to be dropping flights to several destinations.
Flights to Maputo have seen low passenger volumes while showing little signs of improving over December and January, with SAA deciding to pull out of its Maputo service.
“When SAA resumed operations at the end of September, we committed to constantly monitor passenger volumes and revenue on all routes,” said Newton-Smith, SAA’s interim Chief commercial officer.
“Demand on this service has not met expectations and for the time being, this change is in line with our strategy of being a transparent management and fiscally responsible.”
Furthermore, return flights to Accra in Ghana will not be operating on 25 December and 1 January 2022 and flights to Kinshasa will not operate on 24 and 31 December.
The airline is also reportedly downsizing its Zambia frequency from the planned daily flights to 5X weekly to Lusaka beginning Dec 1.
“No airline likes to cancel flights, but we are committed to success and sustainability of our airline, whilst we meet our valued customer requirements,” said Newton-Smith.
By Victor Shalton Odhiambo
