South African Airways Wins Africa’s Leading Airline Award

South African Airways (SAA), also known as “Suid-Afrikaanse Lugdiens (SAL)” South Africa’s flag carrier, was voted “Africa’s Leading Airline” at World Travel Awards Africa Ceremony (held in May in Durban, South Africa).

From BusinessWire –

“
Graham Cooke, president and founder of the World Travel Awards was also
pleased with the first Africa ceremony. “South
African Airways is representative of a flourishing and dynamic South
African industry, a star performer in travel and tourism with an
increase in visitor figures from every key market in the world.”

“South African Airways is regarded as the most awarded airline to Africa
and has won numerous other awards including the recognition as having “The
Best Business Class to Africa” by both Business
TravelerGlobal Traveler magazines, among other travel
experts.”

and

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US Airways: Trying hard to offset the gas bill

After the failed merger attempt with United Airlines, US Airways has started its cost cutting initiatives. To offset the gas bill, they are planning/considering the following –

• New/increased Passenger Fees
• Charge for Soft Drinks (America West was the first airline to charge for a meal)
• Charge $15 for first checked bag (started by American Airlines)
• Capacity cuts
• Potential Layoffs

Earlier US Airways had announced “no pretzels“, “charge for priority seating in coach” and “capacity cuts”.

From AZ Central –

“”I think we’ll be aggressive on those fronts,” President Scott Kirby said of the industry’s move to a la carte pricing.”
“To break even, US Airways said it needs to get $650 to $700 per passenger from a combination of higher fares and fees. The airline is nowhere close to that figure.”

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