Embattled state-owned entity South Africa Airways (SAA) has suspended all its international operations effective immediately until May 31 following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to impose travel bans and restrictions as part of efforts to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak.
“It is in support of efforts by government to deal with this pandemic, and in the best interests of our crew, passengers and the public, that we have decided to suspend all international flights,” said SAA acting chief executive, Zuks Ramasia.
“It is all our responsibility, not just government, to curb further transmission of the virus. In addition, the increasing risks to our crew of contracting the virus - including the possibility of being trapped in foreign destinations as a consequence of increasing travel bans - cannot be ignored.”
A few of the markets affected by this suspension are some of the country’s most valuable trading partners such as the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Brazil and Australia. - Bjorn Vorster
