SA Express has made contingency plans to accommodate passengers affected by the South African Civil Aviation Authority’s (SACAA) decision to ground the airline.
The airline said in a statement that it has been in contact with its strategic partners including SAA, to ensure that all passengers have been accommodated, either on alternative carriers or in hotels where the airline has not been able to get passengers onto flights.
“We regret the inconvenience this frustrating situation has caused our passengers. We assure you that we are doing everything in our power to resolve the situation urgently,” says Matsietsi Mokholo, Acting CEO of SA Express.
“Passenger safety remains our top priority and our 24-year safety record reflects this. We are therefore working closely with the SACAA to address the issues highlighted by them,’’ she added.
According to Mokholo, the audit coincided with the introduction of a stabilisation programme at the airline, which has undergone significant leadership changes over the last twelve months. “The next few days will see the SA Express leadership team, as well as Minister Pravin Gordhan’s Intervention Team, share the stabilisation plans with the SACAA,” she said.
SAA, Mango and Airlink will have designated counters to assist SA Express passengers.
Passengers on SA coded tickets and SA codeshare will be accommodated with international and regional connecting passengers on first priority.
Should delays arise all passengers will, in accordance with international standards, be accommodated for up to 48hrs while the airline will make every effort to get clients on the next flight.
The airline said it will, in accordance with its compensation policy, compensate all passengers for meals and refreshments (excl. alcohol), accommodation and transport costs applicable.
SAA meanwhile has also announced a flight schedule update as part of the recovery plans to bring replacement capacity with partner airlines to support South African Express passengers. “Our priority remains customer assistance in the best way possible in order to minimise the inconvenience caused by the suspension of SA Express services,” said SAA Spokesperson, Tlali Tlali.
Find the full schedule of flights here.