Poppy Khoza, the Director of Civil Aviation (DCA), has been re-appointed to lead the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) for another five-year term, effective from December 1, 2023. This marks her third term in this role, with the appointment approved by the South African Government Cabinet on November 20, 2023.
The SACAA Board sees this re-appointment as a vote of confidence in Khoza’s exemplary leadership over the past eleven years. Ernest Khosa, chairperson of SACAA, expresses support for her leadership and acknowledges its positive impact on staff, the aviation industry, and international counterparts.
“Ms Khoza is an aviation trailblazer who is internationally recognised and supported. It is through her work that our South African aviation sector continues to hold a critical voice on global aviation dialogues. With this, I look forward to what 2024 will offer and towards an even more successful five-year cycle for the SACAA,” said Khosa.
In response to her re-appointment, Khoza expresses deep honour and gratitude, pledging commitment to driving positive change and promoting safety, efficiency, gender equality, and innovation in the aviation sector.
“I would also like to thank the Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga and Deputy Minister Lisa Mangcu for their support and leadership. I also thank the Department of Transport, the Board of Directors led by Khosa, the employees of the SACAA, and the aviation industry for their immense support,” said Khoza.
Khoza emphasizes the importance of collaboration, cooperation, and dedication to ensuring safety and security within the aviation sector while maintaining international standards through partnerships with industry stakeholders.
SACAA safety inspection for airlines
Previously, the SACAA has audited airlines with safety concerns. At the end of 2023, South African Airways (SAA) faced increased scrutiny due to faults at its maintenance unit, SAA Technical. The airline, which has been financially stressed and struggled with profitability, was also dealing with safety concerns related to inadequately qualified personnel and maintenance issues.
Despite the grounding of 46 planes by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), 40 have been returned to service. SACAA accepted a corrective action plan from SAA Technical.
While disruptions led to flight cancellations and delays, operations at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo airport have normalized. SAA and Comair, the British Airways partner, resumed flights after addressing safety concerns.
SAA, heavily reliant on government support, emphasizes that the inspection and grounding were precautionary measures for safety. The airline cancelled four domestic flights but planned to combine and use larger aircraft to accommodate affected passengers. The incident adds to SAA’s existing challenges as it strives to address financial uncertainties and operational disruptions.
SAA Johannesburg-Perth flights route relaunch
Recently, SAA has also announced the resumption of flights between Johannesburg and Perth, Western Australia, starting from April 28, 2024, as the aviation industry gradually recovers from the impact of the pandemic.
After successfully restarting flights to São Paulo in October 2023, South African Airways is reopening its second interoceanic route within six months.
SAA’s Chief Executive Officer, Professor John Lamola, emphasized the strategic significance of reinstating the Johannerburg-Perth route, citing the airline’s commitment to scaling its operations to achieve profitability.
By using its large aircraft, being a national carrier, and offering long-haul flights, SAA aims to serve both leisure and business travellers.
The Perth route is especially popular among South African and Australian travellers, with approximately 80 percent of SAA’s customers being individuals visiting family and friends.
The reopening of this route is expected to streamline travel, fostering increased trade and cultural exchange between South Africa and Australia.
With the increased safety measures and flight routes, plane passengers can be more reassured and have more options to fly the skies.
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