In a move to lower operational costs and carbon emissions, struggling national carrier South African Airways unveiled its new Airbus A350-900 on Friday. The new aircraft is the first of four to touch down on South African soil, with the entire fleet expected to be operating at full capacity by mid-December.
According to SAA acting CEO, Zuks Ramasia: “The introduction of the A350s offers a new beginning for the airline and will contribute to the airline’s operational efficiencies, and get SAA back on track.
“It is an important step-change as we continue to make progress to transform our business and return the airline to financial sustainability in the shortest time possible.”
The new airliners will predominantly be used for long-haul flights departing out of Johannesburg, with SAA reaffirming the aircraft’s impeccable range and payload performance over long distances.
“The commonality and common-type rating between the Airbus A350-900 XWB powered aircraft and the other Airbus aircraft in SAA’s fleet translate directly into cost saving for training pilots, crew, engineers and technicians as well as for spares inventory,” SAA said in a statement on Friday.
The struggling national carrier has been under financial pressure with the new aircraft set to alleviate some of the strain, reducing operational costs by 25% and maintenance costs by 40%.
“SAA will achieve approximately 25% lower operating costs operating the A350-900 XWB, over a five-year period, compared with some of its four-engine aircraft that have similar range and payload capabilities,” the statement said.
Besides the lowering of costs, SAA also looked at lowering its carbon footprint by 25% to fall in line with global aviation standards.
“It will also reduce SAA’s exposure to South Africa’s recently imposed carbon tax because it is more environmentally friendly and will help it achieve global emissions offset mechanism targets for international aviation requirements.” – Bjorn Vorster
