SA Express was grounded on 24 May 2018 after the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) uncovered severe cases of non-compliance.
This comes on the same day as Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan announced the appointment of a new board for the airline and follows an audit at the airline and its maintenance organisation in the past several days
“In order to be able to operate, SA Express will have to reapply and be issued with relevant approvals,” the SACAA said in a statement.
“The airline could not ensure that operational requirements and, most importantly, safety obligations, are met at all times,” said the SACAA.
In a later press briefing on board appointments of State-Owned Enterprises on Friday 25 May 2018, Public Enterprise Minister Pravin Gordhan said steps are being taken to merge South African Airways, SA Express and Mango.
While the merger talks continue South African Airways (SAA) announced an extended schedule as part of the interventions to sustain South African Express network. This is through replacement capacity for a year with partner airlines to support SA Express passengers.
“The year-long schedule brings travel certainty and choice for customers who may want to travel from 29 May 2018 until 28 May 2019,” said SAA Spokesperson, Tlali Tlali.
Our Corporate Traveller Travel Experts are working to contact all customers who are booked and due to travel on SA Express over the next few days. Should you need to make a reservation or have any questions regarding your SA Express booking please contact your travel manager today.