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SAA, Jet Get Into Strategic Alliance
Charmaine Fernz - Mumbai
In what is seen as a strategic step, South African Airways
(SAA) President and CEO, Khaya Ngqula, recently announced a strategic alliance
with Jet Airways. In a far-reaching multi-faceted agreement, Jet Airways will
lease from SAA three top end Airbus 340-300's for its international services
commencing shortly.
In addition, Jet Airways will provide SAA with comprehensive domestic connectivity,
to meet with increased demand from all major urban centers of India. Jet will
also provide unique international connectivity solutions for SAA subject to
approval from the government of India,
Elaborating on the tie-up and future plans, Ngqula said, "We see India
as one of our fastest growing markets, a fact clearly demonstrated by the demand
that has increased manifold over the last three to four years. We realise that
India is quality conscious, which is why we are placing our premium product
Airbus A340-300 that boasts full flat beds, first world ambience and amenities
and most of all great entertainment options. Subsequently on the Indian route,
we would like to fly to potential destinations such as Bangalore, Hyderabad
but Delhi tops the list. However, talks are still in the process along with
checking the viability of these routes. Another reason for leasing our aircraft
is primarily a profit improvement programme by SAA, wherein out of the 65 aircraft
we have, five have been now leased leaving us with just 61 aircraft."
"We would definitely like it if there is an open skies policy between India
and South Africa as we feel that this would provide the shortest route connection
to South America ie Mumbai to San Paulo via Nairobi. On the current commission
cuts debate, on SAA’s part it is status quo," concluded Ngqula.
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