South African Airways (SAA) has extended the cancellation of all domestic and regional flights scheduled for Sunday, November 17, and Monday, November 18, 2019.
However, the airline announced that it will aim to operate all international flights, departing from OR Tambo International Airport, with effect from Sunday November 17, 2019 and customers should report to OR Tambo International Airport as normal.
The cancellations is a result of ongoing industrial action by the South African Cabin Crew Association (SACCA) and the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA).
The airline released a statement on Friday stating that the operational decision is aimed at minimising the impact of disruptions for the airline’s customers.
Departures from SAA’s international stations, including; London, New York, Washington, Munich, Frankfurt and Hong Kong, are expected to operate from Monday, November 18, 2019.
The first departure from São Paulo is expected to operate on Sunday, November 17, 2019. The first departure from Perth is expected to operate on Tuesday, November 19, 2019.
SAA will work with its sister airline, Mango Airlines, to re-accommodate as many customers as possible travelling on domestic services.
“This may mean changes in timing and aircraft types, but aims to ensure that SAA’s customers reach their intended destination with minimal disruption,” the statement read.
Customers traveling to destinations in the regional market (points on the African continent) will be re-accommodated on Airlink, a partner airline of SAA, and other airlines where possible. However, the airline said it will not be possible to re-accommodate all customers.
Philip Saunders, SAA Chief Commercial Officer, said passengers were advised to follow the commercial policies SAA has put in place, which can be found on www.flysaa.com.
“Customers are requested not to travel to their departure airports unless in possession of a rebooked itinerary, as SAA will not be able to provide any assistance,” he said.
The Call Centre hours have been extended from 6am to midnight, South African time.
Customers seeking a refund or wishing to rebook their travel on a future SAA service have until November 30, 2019 to finalise their arrangements.
The Call Centre numbers are 0861 606 606 or 011 978 1111.