1Time rejects fuel surcharge

LOW-FARE airline, 1Time has confirmed that it will not be adding a fuel surcharge and that its fares will remain at R581 one-way, or below, as advertised. Meanwhile, speculation is that competing low-fare carrier, Kulula will also not charge a fuel surcharge, although the airline is not commenting on the matter at this point. According to John Morrisson, ce of the Airlines Association of Southern Africa, the levy of R28 domestically and $10 (R70) internationally, is an optional charge and South African airlines are not obligated to it. The levy was introduced after a meeting on May 13, at which South African Airways and BA/Comair decided to introduce the fuel surcharge with immediate effect, following the same decision by many international airlines. 1Time ceo Glenn Orsmond said that 1Time would be sticking to its decision for the moment, despite further expected oil price hikes in June. The association is in talks with the competition commission regarding the levy, according to News24. (Lucy Siebert)