The independent companies have applied to the Competition Commission for approval to unite under the umbrella of the Airlink group of companies
Rodger Foster, Airlink CEO and managing director, said in a statement:
“Airlink’s acquisition of Safair, which is financially robust and profitable, makes good business sense. It presents opportunities to reduce our combined costs, position ourselves for growth while at the same time increasing connectivity and choice while making air travel accessible and affordable for our customers across Southern Africa.”
Elmar Conradie (pictured), Safair CEO, will remain in the executive position. Conradie agrees with Foster:
“Coming under a single umbrella will create economies of scale that will enable both airlines to share costs, optimise assets and remove systems duplications. This will position the new Airlink Group for future growth.”
According to the acquisition proposal, the airlines will retain their respective products, aircraft fleets, management and leadership teams, while employees will be secure, as no job losses are anticipated due to the consolidation. Moreover, it will not affect Airlink’s existing SAA franchise partnership.
