In a move to contain the spread of the novel Coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak, state-owned carrier, SA Express confirmed on Tuesday that it would suspend all of its operations effective from today.
The airline said that the decision would affect SA Express customers and staff, but had no other option considering the circumstances. In his briefing on Sunday night, President Cyril Ramaphosa urged South Africans to avoid all non-essential travel, particularly in confined spaces such as airplanes.
This has caused considerable uncertainty for the air industry, with SA Express now deciding it will be better to close shop during this period.
For its customers, SA Express announced that they would look to accommodate them on alternative flights, while all non-critical SA Express staff have been placed on compulsory leave.
The airline said it would use this time to look at ways to streamline operations and improve efficiency. – Bjorn Vorster
