Jet Airways set to capitalise on SA-India trade growth

South Africa’s ever-growing economic trade relations with India are set to be boosted even further with the decision by Mumbai-based airline, Jet Airways, to fly directly to Johannesburg daily. According to Arindam Banerji, senior general manager: cargo for Jet Airways, the decision to expand to South Africa, while being part and parcel of the airline’s expansion plans, is also aimed at taking advantage of the growing trade relationship between the two countries. “South Africa and India historically have a very long-standing relationship and both governments are committed to increasing economic trade. There is much opportunity and potential for us as an airline to fly to Johannesburg and to benefit from the growing trade,” he said at the launch of the airline’s new service in Johannesburg last week. “We believe there is also opportunity to see more cargo moved between South Africa and India. This offers South Africa a direct market into India.” It’s the first Indian carrier in decades to offer a direct service between Mumbai and Johannesburg, with the first flight scheduled for April 14. “We are primarily a passenger airline, but cargo is important to us. Our aim is to see at least 20% of revenue being generated from cargo,” said Banerji. “At the moment we expect to see more cargo coming into Johannesburg from India, but we believe this is something that will change as more and more people realise the benefit of being able to fly cargo directly to India and as more trade deals are signed.” Operating an Airbus 330 daily between Johannesburg and Mumbai, the airline has capacity for some 12 tons of cargo. “We are set up for any cargo from general to dangerous goods and can carry it literally to anywhere in India.” Flying to 50 domestic Indian destinations and 23 international cities routes include Toronto in Canada, New York in the US, Brussels and London. According to Anne Sanders of GS Africa, which has been appointed as the sales agents for Jet Airways in South Africa, the entry of a new player is good for the market. “For us as a GSA it gives as another diverse market to sell in South Africa. We also intend feeding the Johannesburg flight to Mumbai from the neighbouring states.” Rogers Aviation, which represents Jet Airways in South Africa, also welcomed the decision of the airline to expand to South Africa saying it certainly ensured more versatility in the market.