South Africa’s national airline has reacted to Comair’s suspension of operations effective 1 June with an announcement that it will make an effort to cover lost capacity in the country’s air transport market. Comair is one of Southern Africa’s long standing air operators, flying both low cost and full service models via subsidiary Kulula.com and franchise partner British Airways. It occupies close to 40% share of the South African market.
Its troubles represent a huge dent in air transport operations in South Africa and come as a significant loss for travellers who are likely to face increased ticket prices.
SAA’s Interim Chairperson and Chief Executive, Prof John Lamola says, “Having emerged from business rescue ourselves, we empathize with Comair and understand the difficulties caused by COVID and high fuel prices.
“The team at SAA has been working hard to find solutions to help affected customers, and is in the process of adjusting our flying programme to adding more seats between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. We are also looking at options to help customers on other routes serviced by SAA, adds Lamola.
SAA says it will increase frequencies where possible and use existing capacity to meet customer demand.
