South African Airways Group airlines, South African Airways (SAA) and Mango, its low-cost subsidiary, announced plans to rationalize their route network for improved efficiencies and optimal aircraft utilisation through a revised airline brand schedule. This will see additional Mango operated flights for the domestic market.

The rationalization program follows an earlier announcement in September, where the airline announced network changes as part of the progressive implementation of its turnaround plan. These initiatives form part of the Five-year turnaround plan to return the business to commercial sustainability in the shortest time possible.

Both SAA and Mango currently offer 200 return flights per week between Johannesburg and Durban and 278 return flights per week between Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Photos above: SAA. The Mango cabin.

To enhance efficiencies and to provide more diverse offering to customers, whilst responding to demand, the two airline brands will ensure seamless implementation of the revised schedule with effect from January 15, 2018. Once fully implemented Mango will operate 132 return flights on the Johannesburg – Durban route and 116 return flights on the Johannesburg – Cape Town route per week. SAA will operate 68 return flights between Johannesburg and Durban, and 162 return flights between Johannesburg and Cape Town.

The SAA group will continue to offer customers the option to travel on the product of their choice, making it much more convenient for them to choose their preferred service and schedule.

The changes will be reflected in all the SAA and Mango distribution systems with effect from 12 December 2017.

Mango flights will operate on Boeing 737-800s and SAA will discontinue operating Airbus A340-600s on the Johannesburg – Cape Town route.

Above Copyright Photo: South African Airways Airbus A340-642 ZS-SNF (msn 547) JNB (Paul Denton). Image: 923668.

Members of Voyager, SAA’s frequent flyer programme, will continue to earn Miles on Mango operated flights if booked on the SAA code and will continue to enjoy the SAA baggage allowance, lounge access and a seamless transfer on to the regional and international network services of SAA. Voyager members can also spend their Miles on Mango operated flights, by utilising Miles or a combination of Miles and a range of payment options.

Top Copyright Photo: Mango (South African Airways) Boeing 737-8BG WL ZS-SJK (msn 32355) JNB (TMK Photography). Image: 913072.

Mango:

South African Airways: