SAA resurrection

At oNE stage the prospect appeared unlikely but South African Airways (SAA) is preparing to take to the skies again after a long period of financial instability.

The carrier launched its first tickets to the market yesterday for return flights that will leave the tarmac on 23 Sep, initially operating routes from Johannesburg to Cape Town, Accra, Kinshasa, Harare, Lusaka and Maputo.

“After months of diligent work, we are delighted that SAA is resuming service and we look forward to welcoming on board our loyal passengers and flying the South African flag,” Interim CEO Thomas Kgokolo said.

The once South African Government-controlled airline has faced many hurdles over the last 24 months, which ultimately saw 51% of the company sold to the Takatso Consortium in Jun (TD 16 Jun), putting an end to any more government bailouts.