FlySafair has launched a blistering critique of Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), blaming the state-owned entity for Monday’s widespread flight disruptions at OR Tambo International Airport.
FlySafair refuses to be held accountable for the OR Tambo fuel blunder
The airline described the refuelling failure as a “catastrophic system failure” and announced refunds on airport taxes to affected passengers, sparking heated debate about ACSA’s operational capabilities.
In a public statement, FlySafair placed the blame squarely on ACSA for the refuelling chaos that delayed numerous flights, inconvenienced travellers, and drew nationwide scrutiny.
The airline refunded airport taxes paid by passengers, claiming it was a gesture of goodwill to address frustrations caused by “the apparent failure of ACSA to ensure adequate infrastructure maintenance.”
RelatedPosts
“This is not a cost we have any obligation to carry but rather one we’ve chosen to absorb in good faith, unlike the neglect that caused the disruption,” FlySafair noted in its statement.
ACSA rocked by liquidation allegations
The fallout from the refuelling crisis comes as ACSA faces allegations of being on the brink of liquidation, a claim the organisation has vehemently denied.
ACSA labelled the liquidation filing by certain service providers as a “vexatious and malicious” attempt to coerce payments for unverified claims amounting to R126 million.
In its press statement issued on Monday, ACSA assured the public of its financial stability, citing audited financials from the Auditor General that confirmed the entity’s solvency.
The company called the liquidation attempt “opportunistic” and pledged to oppose it in court.
ACSA also faces litigation linked to expired security contracts, which the company claims are tied to the unverified claims under arbitration.
Over R292 million has reportedly been paid to security providers this year alone, but tensions remain high as arbitration hearings are set for early 2025.
ACSA accused certain providers of abandoning the agreed arbitration process in favour of legal tactics aimed at tarnishing the company’s reputation.
“We will not be coerced into making irregular payments under undue pressure or threatened legal action,” ACSA stated.
