SAA bumps up capacity on domestic and regional routes

ALAN PEAT WITH THE needs of the customer very much in mind, SAA Cargo has formulated a growth strategy focused on delivering set objectives, according to GM Patrick Dlamini. These include acquiring short- and long-haul freighters for the domestic, regional and international markets - as well as warehouse expansion to improve operational efficiencies. Insufficient capacity in some domestic sectors has been remedied, Dlamini added, with what he terms “a solid capacity management plan” in place to provide the required capacity, minimise off-loads and increase SAA Cargo’s share of the market. It increased its capacity in the domestic market by 25%, with minimal off-loads during the peak season in 2005, he said. “With the procurement of the new DC8-62 aircraft to service the Johannesburg-Cape Town route,” Dlamini said, “we believe the technical hindrances of the recent past will be overcome and thus the domestic market will be more than satisfied come August 1.” SAA Cargo is to acquire new generation freighters in early 2007.