'Wait is finally over': South African Airways to start flying again next month

By Hassan Isilow

JOHANNESBURG (AA) - South African Airways (SAA) is set to resume flights from Sept. 23, after remaining grounded for more than 15 months.

“The wait is finally over. In just under a month, the striking and familiar livery of SAA will once again be visible in the skies as the airline resumes operations,’’ the national carrier said in a statement on Wednesday.

The airline underwent a business rescue process after it collapsed last March due to financial mismanagement and the impact of COVID-19 on the aviation industry.

“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. We continue to be a safe carrier and adhering to COVID-19 protocols,” said interim chief executive Thomas Kgokolo.

“There is a profound feeling of enthusiasm within Team SAA as we prepare for takeoff, with one common purpose – to rebuild and sustain a profitable airline that once again takes a leadership role among local, continental, and international airlines.”

The airline is now owned by the government and a private equity partner, which is a majority shareholder.

It had survived on bailouts for many years, irking members of the opposition and citizens alike.

The flag carrier will initially operate flights from Johannesburg to Cape Town, Accra, Kinshasa, Harare, Lusaka and Maputo, and more destinations will be added to the route network as it ramps up operations in response to market conditions.