FlySafair has responded to the recent decision of the International Air Services Licensing Council (IASLC) regarding nationality provisions and anticipated sanctions against the airline.
“We have filed an urgent application for an interdict to protect our international customers from any unnecessary disruption, as we work through this matter, although we remain confident in our longstanding adherence to regulatory requirements,” says FlySafair in a media release.
The airline points out that the IASLC’s decision would not affect the majority of its flights, which are domestic.
“This recent decision pertains solely to FlySafair’s international routes and will not impact any domestic flights, which are governed by a separate licence.
“We are steadfast in our commitment of transparency and operational integrity. We respect the role of the Council and the structures allowing competitor input and are fully prepared to engage in a fair process to find resolution. We appreciate constructive engagement from all parties and emphasise the importance of an outcome that serves the best interests of travellers and the South African public at large.
“Furthermore, we would like to assure our customers that we are focused on avoiding any service disruptions. We are engaging with the relevant authorities to avoid any negative impact on customers and have back-up plans in place should we need them.”
The airline continues: “Competitors have raised objections to FlySafair’s interdict. While their positions may reflect their business interests, we hope that all parties consider the potential impact on travellers and the broader aviation community. Limiting supply on these routes could drive up fares and disrupt travel plans, particularly as demand rises over the summer holiday period.
“By way of example, the additional seat capacity introduced by FlySafair’s entry into the Johannesburg-Harare route in October last year served to drastically reduce average fares by up to 50% over some periods. Any reduction in this supply would have an immediate opposite effect.”
FlySafair says it will continue working closely with the relevant authorities to resolve the matter swiftly and fairly.
