SAA Faces Major Flight Delay Woes
South African Airways (SAA) is grappling with significant flight delays, with Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy revealing that less than 40% of flights arrived on time in October. This concerning statistic has raised eyebrows and prompted questions about the airline's operational efficiency.
According to Creecy's response to a parliamentary inquiry from Rise Mzansi leader Songezo Zibi, a staggering 1,451 SAA flights experienced delays in October alone. Year-to-date, the number of delayed flights reaches a troubling 9,941, averaging nearly 1,000 delays per month. Given SAA's schedule of approximately 2,359 flights monthly (based on 533 weekly flights), this means an average of around 42% of SAA flights have been delayed this year.
October's figures paint an even grimmer picture, with 61.5% of flights delayed, leaving only 38.5% arriving on schedule. While the majority of delays were less than one hour, the overall impact on passengers and the airline's reputation is undeniable.
What's Causing the Delays?
Minister Creecy attributed the delays to several factors, including technical aircraft maintenance, air traffic control issues, and general flight operations. A key contributing factor has been the performance of South Africa’s Air Traffic Navigation Services (ATNS), a state-owned entity responsible for managing South African airspace. ATNS faced significant challenges in 2024, with 226 Instrument Flight Procedures suspended after missed renewal deadlines. These procedures are crucial for navigating low-visibility conditions, impacting flight safety and efficiency.
The international standard considers a flight delayed only if it departs or arrives more than 15 minutes late. SAA's performance falls considerably short of Airports Company South Africa’s (ACSA’s) ambitious goal of 95% on-time performance for all airlines.
Impact and the Way Forward
These delays have affected a wide range of South African airports. The situation highlights the need for urgent attention to aircraft maintenance, improved air traffic control management, and addressing the challenges faced by ATNS. Passengers are urged to check their flight status regularly and factor in potential delays when planning their travel. Addressing these issues is crucial for restoring confidence in SAA and ensuring smoother air travel for South Africans.