South African Airways (SA A) Cargo has appointed Menzies Aviation, the world’s largest aviation services company, to provide air cargo services at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport, and the Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport in Gqeberha/Port Elizabeth.Whilst the first phase of Menzies’ appointment started in December 2022 with the handling of all SA A Cargo terminal operations in Cape Town, the second phase is set to begin at OR Tambo in the coming weeks.The appointment of Menzies followed a rigorous procurement process and is part of the ongoing restructuring process that SA A is implementing post-Business Rescue, reads a statement by Menzies.“The partnership with SA A aligns with the strategy to grow Menzies’ footprint in Africa, where we see huge potential for growth. SA A is an important player in the cargo industry and this partnership is a real game changer for our business in South Africa as we are now based in the largest air cargo facilities in the country in the two main air freight ports. “It also aligns with our long-term vision to strengthen our position as the leading aviation services provider in Africa,” said Philipp Joeinig, CEO of Menzies Aviation.According to Professor John Lamola, chairperson and chief executive officer of SA A, it is an important milestone as part of ongoing efforts to re-position SA A Cargo and unlock the value of its terminals.“It also allows management to focus on critical strategic goals to grow our cargo business.”SA A Cargo and Menzies are currently undertaking renovations of the terminals at OR Tambo, Cape Town, and Gqeberha with sustainability in mind. Investing in electric vehicles and ground service equipment, solar energy, energy efficient lighting and a full recycling programme are some of the actions being taken to reduce the carbon footprint.The facilities, which will remain part of SA A’s property portfolio, are the largest domestically. OR Tambo has the capacity to handle 229 000 tons per year and Cape Town has a capacity of 92 550 tons per year. Menzies will move its existing and new business into the cargo handling facilities.
