African airlines ‘should dominate continent’s air space’
THE Department of Transport says it is "looking closely" at South African Airways’ (SAA’s) investment in aircraft as it wants African airlines to dominate Africa’s air space.SAA’s procurement of aircraft has been mired in controversy in recent years. In 2105, the Treasury turned down a proposal from the airline’s board to restructure a refleeting transaction with Airbus.The department’s comment comes as Ethiopian Airlines on Friday landed the first of 14 new Airbus A350 aircraft at OR Tambo International Airport.Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s biggest and fastest-growing airline, is the first to have purchased these aircraft on the continent. It spent more than $2bn on the deal, which includes other smaller aircraft.Regional manager Abel Alemu said the aircraft had been purchased as part of its strategy to stay competitive in the aviation market.ALSO READ: South African Express manager suspended for alleged bribe takingHe said the Airbus A350 had new technology and was 25% more fuel ef...
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