Flight cancellations and delays due to safety concerns
A number of airlines announced delays and grounding of aircrafts this morning, as a precautionary measure following a safety audit conducted by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) on the South African Airways Technical (SAAT), who maintains aircrafts on behalf of a number of airlines, which include South African Airways (SAA), Mango and Comair/British Airways.
SACAA is an agency of the Department of Transport with a mandate to regulate aviation safety and security. The Regulator has consistently maintained a proud safety record, earning accolades from its peers around the world.
We have been briefed by the SACAA that as a consequence of the sampling of sampled a few aircraft, these were subsequently issued with a prohibition order, meaning that these could not operate until they had addressed the non-compliances.
We are pleased that SAA Technical has since submitted a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) aimed at addressing the irregularities. The Corrective Action Plan submitted was found to be acceptable by the SACAA.
The delays and cancellations experienced this morning were precautionary measures taken by the affected airlines in order to ensure that no aircraft takes to the skies without absolute certainty as to its airworthiness.
The Airports Company South Africa activated at all its airports full contingency plans and ensured that all operational staff were on the floor to support the airlines. ACSA is working closely with airlines to minimize the impact on passengers.
We appeal to the public to be patient and be on the lookout for updates from their airlines, where there may be delays and cancellations. Safety of our people is paramount and airlines owe a duty to their customers to ensure that the aircrafts that are in service meet the safety standards.
Inquiries:
Ayanda Allie Paine
Cell: 074 823 7979
