SAA has leased an A330-300 aircraft to maintain its full operations during its scheduled maintenance period, from September 15 until November.
The aircraft has been wet leased from the Portuguese lease and charter specialist, Hi Fly.
Hi Fly will operate selected international flights using an aircraft configured similarly to SAA’s widebody fleet. The aircraft, which accommodates 249 passengers, will be used on routes connecting Johannesburg with Lagos, Accra, and São Paulo.
“This temporary arrangement that is normal in the airline industry is similar to our arrangement with Sun Express. It represents an innovative solution that enables South African Airways to maintain its operational schedule and revenue targets while upholding our unwavering commitment to reliability, connectivity, and safety,” said SAA CEO, John Lamola.
SAA pointed out that due to differences in the cabin design of the leased aircraft, passengers will need their own devices, headsets and power cords for in-flight entertainment, which will be available via streaming.
Additionally, the aircraft will be staffed by Hi Fly crew for the first two months, while the SAA crew complete regulatory training to support service delivery.
SAA’s A330-300 is expected to return from maintenance in time for its festive season international routes expansions, as reported by Travel News.
