Hilka Birns/CAPE TOWN
South African Airways (SAA) aims to become the guiding force in an alliance of sub-Saharan airlines, as it negotiates to acquire a major shareholding in Nigeria Airways. The moves come as the South African carrier prepares to relaunch a competition to upgrade its short- and long-haul fleet.
SAA is in discussions to acquire up to a 60% shareholding in the Nigerian national carrier. It is also awaiting Kampala's final approval on the sale of 49% of Uganda Airlines, which has hit problems. Coleman Andrews, SAA chief executive, says that the airline is also in various stages of negotiation with the governments and major carriers in Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire.
Talks are focused either on commercial relationships or equity shareholding, whichever suits the particular situation, says Andrews. "In the case of Nigeria, we have talked about acquiring 40% to 60% and they have been very candid about wanting an equity partner to turn around the airline," he adds.
Meanwhile, SAA is about to begin a long-term fleet study, covering short- and long-haul types as it seeks to rationalise its fleet.
Ultra long-haul aircraft types, including the A340-500/600 and Boeing 777, will be studied. Its earlier order for up to seven 777-200s was swapped for 747-400s.
"An important part of our strategy is having an aircraft that has somewhat smaller gauge, and the range to allow us to reach key markets in Europe, the USA and Asia," says Andrews. The strategy study, which is also aimed at replacing the airline's fleet of three Boeing 767-200s and eleven 747 Classics (-200s, -300s and SPs), is expected to be completed by next July.
The short-haul fleet evaluation is more advanced, with SAA considering new and used aircraft for delivery from next year. The airline operates 12 Boeing 737-200s and seven Airbus A320s, and is evaluating the acquisition of used 737-300/400s, new 737-700/800s, or new/used A320 family aircraft.
Source: Flight International
