As we approach the slightly more relaxed level 3 lockdown restrictions we can start to get excited about passenger air travel in our skies once more. The restrictions have been lifted to allow business only travel within our domestic borders, one hopes that the business travel restriction gets relaxed sooner rather than later to allow for anybody willing and medically able to travel.
The airline industry is going to need the support of the government going forward, it will also rely heavily on support from the public. The CEO of Fly Safair, Elmar Conradie spoke openly this week about his thoughts as the industry performs its “pre flight checks”. He appears to be a dynamic CEO with a clear vision of what needs to happen for a recovery to take place. Three important points that are worth mention, firstly against what other leaders originally suggested is the opinion that ticket prices will reduce significantly until the demand for seats is increased. His second point relates to alternate government support by the possibility of reducing or scrapping the high cost of regulatory costs imposed upon the South African airlines. A large portion of any airline’s expenses come from these regulatory costs, direct government support in terms of funding may not be a possibility but there are certainly other ways for government to support the industry that could be entertained. This would give much needed breathing space to all the airlines including the smaller but just as important private charter companies. Lastly and most importantly were his thoughts regarding his current employees. Layoffs had not taken place, although Fly Safair will undoubtably be over-staffed across the board as South Africa starts its level 3 restrictions, his vision is for a recovery to take place and for full use of their staff compliment once more. As a CEO he is ultimately hired to provide that vision, I hope he gets the support from his board, our government and future passengers.
A thought for all the pilots that can start dusting off their flight bags and Ray Ban’s again. The Covid-19 pandemic has certainly brought us closer together as a pilot fraternity in South Africa and long may it continue. I received a large amount of support for our new look Bryan Air Podcast last week. Pilots from all over South Africa have sent us messages of support, we are truly grateful. For the pilots that will take to the skies from the 1st June, spare a thought for your fellow aviators across the globe that have lost their jobs during this lockdown window. On those foggy winter mornings at FAOR there might not be that long traffic jam made up of 737’s; 330’s; ERJ’s ; E-Jets; Q400’s and CRJ’s but they will certainly be there in spirit.
Once again thanks for supporting us on this journey and for all your positive feedback. We will be back each week with the latest news, events and trends in the aviation industry. To keep up to date with what we have been up to, please check www.e-aerospace.com for my latest blog and podcast episodes. Help us by sharing, liking and commenting on the published media. All the podcast episodes are available on the website, you can also follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or any other major streaming service. Don’t forget to tell your friends, families and colleagues about us.
Like I have said many time before flying is a passion but as these travel restrictions have made so evident, it is also a great privilege. Fly safe and keep our South African skies the safest in the world. If you would like to get in touch with me or even be on our show, my email is bryan@e-aerospace.com
Thanks for your time. Fly with passion!
Bryan Roseveare