SouTHERN AFRiCA’S TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY
February 17 2010 I No. 2094
INSIDE
TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY
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NEWS
NEWS
fEaTurE
50TH AsATA ConferenCe
ACsA 2d CHeCk-in
YouTH TrAvel A Avel
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March 2010 launch
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Blow to 1time’s lanseria battle melody Brandon
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T could take a year or longer for the Competition Tribunal to decide whether 1time may operate flights from Lanseria – with just a year to go before kulula. com’s exclusive agreement with the airport expires. “1time has filed papers with the Competition Tribunal. We now have to wait for a response from the other parties (including kulula.com). After these responses have been filed, we will give the complainant the opportunity to respond. We would then have to find a suitable date for all parties to be part of a hearing,” Lerato Motoung, registrar at the Competition Tribunal told Travel News Weekly. 1time complained to the Competition Commission in 2008, alleging the exclusive-use agreement between Lanseria and kulula.com was anti-competitive. The Competition Commission recently found, however, that the deal was justified and necessary for kulula.com to recover its investment. The airline has now referred the matter to the Competition Tribunal. “The Commission investigated this case and decided not to refer it to the Competition Tribunal because the nature and duration of the agreement (five years) between Lanseria and kulula was justified on the grounds of the risk and substantial investment which both
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parties took on when entering into the arrangement,” said Competition Commission spokesman, Nandi Mokoena. “Furthermore, the agreement was set to end in 2011, bringing the end of the agreement near.” Despite the time the Tribunal could take to make a decision, 1time commercial manager, Desmond o’Connor, said the airline wanted to “pre-empt another exclusivity agreement between Lanseria and kulula.com from being signed”. The Commission has, however, made it clear to both Lanseria and kulula.com that an arrangement beyond five years would not be acceptable. Lanseria gm, Gavin Sayce, said another exclusive agreement could not be put into place after the initial five-year one expired. “The Competition Commission has made it clear that another agreement would not be allowed. It would certainly be beneficial for the airport to offer more flights.” Comair joint ceo, Gidon Novick, said that following the end of the agreement between kulula.com and Lanseria, the decision to allow 1time to use the airport would not be the airline’s to make. “When 1time had the opportunity a few years back to take the risk and fly from Lanseria, it did not take up the offer. Whatever the outcome, we will continue to work with Lanseria.” n
lH A380 to sA in June? Just a few months after receiving its first A380, it is likely Lufthansa will be using it on its Frankfurt to Johannesburg route, the airline confirmed to TNW. The first A380 service operated by Lufthansa will be the Frankfurt-New York JFK route. Meanwhile, the airline has launched a fantastic first-class special. The Travel in Style from Cape Town to the World special is valid for booking until February 28 for travel until April 6 (last outbound). For details see Travelinfo. Travelling in style (from left) are Lufthansa account intern Poloko Dzikiti with service centre agents Jeisen De Caires, Clement Mulamba and Shirley Wright Photo: Tijana Huysamen
‘Jet-ting’ to sA? natalia tHomson JET Airways is recruiting staff in South Africa in preparation for the launch of its direct MumbaiJohannesburg flights. The airline, represented by GSA, Rogers Aviation, in the SA market, will be appointing, among others, a district sales
manager, reservation and ticketing supervisor and various clerks, in addition to staff in Durban. Jet Airways head office says it will be in a position to confirm details regarding its flights to SA in “a short while” but cannot confirm media reports that the airline will launch flights
in time for the World Cup in June. The introduction of another direct SA-India route will be most welcome, says Serendipity Tours marketing director, Dinesh Naidoo. “There’s definitely a market for another direct To page 2
NEWS
Head to Cape Town for the Asata conference!
Top web stories ● Agents only: Alpine Heath Resort ● SAA gets strict on hand luggage ● LH A380 for Johannesburg? ● TNW pick of the week: Investigate them all! ● Monday smile: Have you ever wondered?
Natalia Thomson
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T’S an opportunity to be heard, to tell your story and to hear the stories of others. If you haven’t booked your spot at Asata’s 50th Conference, themed ‘Redesigning the Story of Travel’, what are you waiting for? Hundreds of travel industry delegates will be in Cape Town from March 19 to 22 to attend the event being held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. In addition to powerful panel discussions on issues affecting the retail agent, such as the growth of online travel agents, and a big picture talk on political change and how it affects our businesses by Justice Malala, keynote speaker Justin Cohen will teach us how to tell the story of travel. Recognising excellence within the travel industry, the Asata Awards will be
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Rubes® By Leigh Rubin
held on March 21. It’s a very simple electronic process to nominate your colleagues, staff or suppliers with all details available on the Asata website. If you have a colleague who you feel is exceptional, a staff member who consistently exceeds expectations or a supplier whose loyalty and efficiency you admire, simply visit the Asata website, select the category under which you would like to nominate your travel industry colleague and complete the electronic form.
Nominations are now open for awards in the following categories:
● Airline sales representative ● Car-rental sales representative ● Corporate consultant in a retail Travel Management Company ● Credit card company sales representative ● Exceptional commitment to the SA travel industry
● Hotel group sales representative ● In-house corporate consultant in a retail Travel Management Company ● Insurance company sales representative ● Key account executive of a retail Travel Management Company ● Leisure consultant in a retail Travel Management Company ● Sales representative of a retail Travel Management Company ● Tomorrow’s leader in the SA travel industry ● Wholesale consultant ● Wholesale sales representative ● Wholesale sales representative for groups and incentives. Nominations must be submitted online by February 26 and should provide as much detail as possible, as the judging panel does not have access to the name of the nominee or company they represent. ■
Thumbs up for new Comair routes Jeanette Phillips
“I’d really like to fly for help, sir, but I’m afraid that would seriously compromise my role as a dispassionate and somewhat famished observer.”
TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY
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EDITORIAL Editor: Natalia Thomson nataliat@nowmedia.co.za Sub-Editor: Ann Braun annb@nowmedia.co.za Cape Town Editor: Hilka Birns hilkab@nowmedia.co.za Journalists: Jeanette Phillips jeanettep@nowmedia.co.za Natasha Tippel natashat@nowmedia.co.za Melody Brandon melodyb@nowmedia.co.za Photo Journalist: Tijana Huysamen tijanah@nowmedia.co.za Founding Editors: John H Marsh (1914-1996) Leona Marsh (1923-2003) ADVERTISING Sales Manager Kate Nathan Advertising Coordinator: Natalie Walker PRODUCTION Design Head: Brendon Bester
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SOUTH African travellers can look forward to more choice and lower fares on the Dar es Salaam and Walvis Bay routes following Comair’s announcement that it will launch scheduled services to the destinations. “Great news, and a solid airline to boot!” says Colin Fryer from Centre Stage Travel. “The opening up of our skies to reputable, capable and able airlines is an important aspect to attract more overseas inbound visitors and stimulate demand within our domestic and regional markets. This natural progression of service delivery allows for a lowering of some of the ‘controlled rates’ secured by limiting the chosen service providers and can bring incremental volumes through our industry. We’re looking for more of
this within Mozambique – Maputo/Vilanculos and Pemba specifically.” Carlos Pereira from Travel with Flair says it is always good when there is competition as this often contributes to lower and more affordable prices. Carlos says the addition of the Walvis Bay route will be good for business and a welcome option for travellers, who will no longer need to hire a car or take the bus to reach the destination. The group was granted the rights by the South African Air Licensing Council and the flights will add to Comair’s existing regional African network from Johannesburg to Harare, Livingstone, Victoria Falls, Windhoek and Mauritius. “The granting of the new licences will bring muchneeded competition to the regional African routes, which have been dominated by
government-owned airlines. This increased competition will also make for more competitive fare pricing, improvement in service levels and additional choice for customers,” said Stuart Cochrane, Comair’s executive manager for sales and route development. Charmaine Thomé, spokesperson for Air Namibia, agrees: “Air Namibia’s fares are always market related and constantly analysed and adjusted based on these market needs. We will certainly not implement a price war based on a new competitor on a specific route. Competition is healthy and we wish British Airways all the best.” Comair is in the process of finalising schedules for the new routes and will inform customers when bookings open. ● See the poll on page 12 for more industry views. ■
has gained huge market share, he adds. “Competition is definitely needed, provided Jet Airways has the right aircraft, the right crew and the right price.”
Currently Air India and SAA operate a codeshare on the Johannesburg-Mumbai route. SAA operates four flights a week between the two destinations. ■
‘Jet-ting’ to SA? From page 1 carrier,” says Dinesh. Since the introduction of Emirates Airline’s Durban to Dubai flights connecting to several India destinations, the carrier
QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
NEWS
Acsa ready to launch 2D check-in Natasha tiPPel
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OON passengers travelling through SA airports will be able to check in online and print their boarding passes at home. Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) is busy with the implementation of the 2D barcode verification system and plans to go live with it at the end of March. The system will be launched first at OR Tambo International Airport and then rolled out at Cape Town, Durban, Bloemfontein and Port Elizabeth later in the year. “The initiative will provide additional processing capacity, reduced queuing times and better customer service for the travelling public, especially
over the 2010 FIFA World Cup period,” says Acsa’s group manager of communications, Solomon Makgale. The boarding pass with the printed bar code is screened at the security search point, allowing passengers without luggage to bypass the check-in counter entirely. Meanwhile, passengers with luggage can proceed to the fast bag dropoff point, depending on which airline they are flying with. The initiative is in line with Iata’s Simply the Business Initiative and Iata PDF 417 standard so all airlines complying with the Iata standard can participate, confirms Solomon. For many airlines, the system is not new, already having been implemented in other
parts of the world. However, airlines are looking forward to benefits the 2D system will bring to SA passengers.
Airlines ready to go
“Lufthansa eagerly awaits the introduction of this system at South African airports,” says md southern and eastern Africa for Lufthansa and Swiss, Gabriel Leupold. “Speed, convenience and flexibility are the main benefits for the passenger. Queuing becomes obsolete.” Spokesperson for British Airways, Stephen Forbes, agrees: “We offer our customers the option to print their own boarding passes in many markets and have wanted to provide it to our South African customers for
some time. We are more than ready to participate.” Air Namibia is also already 2D compliant and plans to introduce the system as soon as South African airports are online. SAA also plans to participate. “SAA has already implemented web check-in and once Acsa is ready to deploy, SAA will activate home boarding pass printing with 2D barcodes,” says acting head group corporate affairs, Vimla Maistry. “In addition SAA, in conjunction with Star Alliance, will deploy mobile based check-in with 2D bar codes.” Meanwhile, the new developments have prompted other airlines to follow the trend, such as Afriqiyah, which is in the process of becoming
compliant and hopes to be ready when Acsa launches the system at the end of March. As with any new system, there are bound to be practical issues in the beginning. However, airlines are confident that these will quickly be resolved. “Teething problems are imminent and only once the systems are running will we really know what problems will emerge,” says sales and marketing manager for Afriqiyah, Michell Fourie. Gabriel notes that airlines will have to rely on the functionality and the maintenance of the boarding gate readers. However, he says a back-up of simply printing a new boarding pass will always be an option. n
SOuThERN AFRiCA’S TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY
South Africans are wondering where they can go to get a break from the hype around the 2010 Soccer events. Agents need to find good deals for those making the escape. Here’s a chance to highlight your product to these influential retailers!
African Encounters’ two new directors, Gary Smith (left) and Ewan Opperman (right), pictured here with md, Rodger Williams Photo: Tijana Huysamen
Climbing to new heights Natalia thomsoN AFRICAN Encounters embarks on a new adventure this year with two new directors at the helm and many exciting plans to take the operator to new heights. Gary Smith and Ewan Opperman, who collectively have over 20 years’ travel industry experience at, among others, Tourvest, Comair, Virgin Atlantic and Sun International, have bought a share in the business. In addition to a range of new destinations that include Mozambique and Malawi, the tour operator is looking at the leisure potential of such locations as Botswana, Namibia and
the Seychelles, as well as west African destinations like Morocco, Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire. “Our focus is to increase exclusive supplier agreements while implementing up-to-date technology to enhance our booking capabilities. The first step towards the development of our online, live availability res-tool begins with the migration to the Amadeus GDS, which has just been completed,” says Gary. African Encounters, adds Ewan, will soon be launching a travel agents’ training campaign “aimed at empowering the trade with the necessary knowledge and experience to become
QUICK READ FOR bUSIESt pEOplE
African Encounters product specialists”. The operator is also embarking on an ambitious social responsibility initiative as part of its annual Charity Challenges to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. The ‘Climb Kili Campaign’ is being run in partnership with Africa Now Tourism Management and Ekukhanyeni, an NGO Section 21 partner. “The campaign will be the main channel through which to raise funds for Ekukhanyeni’s Early Childhood Development Programme. The funds raised will be used to redevelop eight crèches in two informal settlements south of Johannesburg,” explains Gary. n
Book now for TNW’s special feature – Great Escapes for 2010. TNW issue date March 3, 2010. Booking deadline extended to February 20, 2010. E-mail: katen@nowmedia.co.za
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22896 Y&R Zambia
NEWS
Natasha tippel
A stylish new addition to the Southern African skies Zambezi Airlines operating daily out of Lusaka to Johannesburg, four times weekly between Ndola and Johannesburg, and three times weekly between Lusaka and Dar-es-Salaam, caters to the business and leisure sectors. Experience the now famous Zambian hospitality combined with punctuality to give you a full service product at affordable prices. Providing travellers with value for money, passengers in the region are fast disovering what it is to fly in Zambezi Style.
Zambezi A I R L I N E S
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Flight Centre SA to unveil business travel brand
F LUSAKA NDOLA JOHANNESBURG DAR-ES-SALAAM
Reservations: Tel 011 289 8172. Offices: 156 Bram Fischer Drive, Randburg or Ticket Desk, Terminal A Departures, OR Tambo International Airport. E-mail: zambezi@holidayaviation.co.za Online: www.flyzambezi.com or your local travel agent.
LIGHT Centre South Africa (FCSA) has moved to strengthen its presence in the corporate travel market. The company has unveiled plans to launch its Corporate Traveller brand to the market as part of a strategy to improve service, increase business travel market share and capture the growing needs of the SME travel market. Executive gm for the Flight Centre group, Janine Salame, says Corporate Traveller will be closely aligned to FCSA’s key global corporate travel business, FCm Travel Solutions, to ensure a high standard of service
is maintained through dedicated account managers. “Corporate Traveller’s service and product offering will focus on the SME market, providing clients a combination of expert advice, personal service and tailored travel management to maximise savings for small to medium-sized travel budgets,” says Janine. “Clients can expect a high touch and cost-effective travel management service backed by the global strength of the Flight Centre Limited group.” Janine says significant growth in the SME segment for corporate travel in the past few years now means a dedicated approach to travel management
is required. “Growth in the SME corporate travel market in the past decade has been strengthened by South Africa’s prosperous environment for homegrown businesses. We have witnessed substantial growth in the SME market from businesses working in a range of sectors including mining, engineering, finance and banking, technology and manufacturing. Corporate Traveller will specifically cater for the travel needs of this growing sector with a boutique travel management service that drives cost and time efficiencies.” Corporate Traveller will be officially launched to the South African market next month. n
Relais & Châteaux 2010 Guide launched hilka BirNs
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KARKLOOF Spa near Pietermaritzburg is the only African property among the 37 new additions to the Relais & Châteaux 2010 Guide of exclusive hotels and resorts around the world. It joins the 25 Relais & Châteaux members in Africa and the Indian Ocean islands and a total of 480 member properties in 58 countries. Among the latest additions are 17 European properties, six in the Americas and six in Asia and Oceania. The 2010 Guide also includes four new destinations: Taiwan, Macau, Hungary and Peru. Four of
the new members also have been accepted as Grands Chefs Relais & Châteaux, the greatest names in global fine dining. Speaking at the launch of the new guide at The CellarsHohenort Hotel in Cape Town, Relais & Châteaux ceo, Jacques-Olivier Chauvin, said the association aimed at establishing itself in every region of the world and had a particular need for a stronger presence in Asia. “We also want to extend our presence in key markets such as South Africa and grow awareness here.” The event coincided with the official opening of the first Relais & Châteaux bureau in Africa at The
Cellars-Hohenort Hotel, headed up by Southern, East Africa and Indian Ocean Islands director, Annie-Claude Bergonzoli. The office will provide a reservation and consultation service.
New features of the 2010 guide:
● Focus on families: the new issue highlights activities for children. ● Maps have been regrouped at the back of the guide for greater clarity. Some 780 000 copies of the guide are distributed in five languages (French, English, German, Spanish and Italian) in almost 60 countries. n
Travelinfo,s Hayley Cochran selects the top specials from Travelinfo ● Mango-Flex promotional fares from R559 one way. Fares include taxes. Valid for booking until March 31 and travel until April 30. ● Explore Plus Travel & Tours – ‘Early Bird’ specials to Zanzibar from R10 652 per person sharing. Includes return airfare ex-Johannesburg, airport taxes, return transfers and seven nights’ all-inclusive accommodation. Valid from May1 to June 30 – pay before February 28 and get a 10% discount on accommodation. ● Costa Cruises (Development Promotions) is offering Mediterranean cruises from R2 235 for a five-night cruise and R4 932 for a 14-night cruise. Caribbean cruises are from R3 184 for a seven-night cruise. Rates are per person sharing and include on-board accommodation, meals and entertainment. Valid for set departures from February 28 until March 28. Excludes flights. ● Bayete Zulu Game Lodge in KwaZulu Natal is offering a Valentine’s Day special rate of R1 399 per person sharing per night. The rate includes accommodation with one game drive per day and Valentine’s gifts. Valid until February 28. A minimum two-night stay applies.
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QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
PillowTalk
A brief look at this week's hotel news
Premier Hotel Cascades opens in East London
THE Premier Hotel Cascades, located adjacent to the East London International Convention Centre, has opened. The 261-room hotel features a spa, hi-tech gym, swimming pool, restaurant, free Wi-Fi connection, business centre, public and VIP lounges, on-site parking and 24-hour room service. Rooms range from de-luxe rooms to onebedroom suites with their own lounges, catering for convention and touring groups and leisure travellers.
The Point Village Hotel opens in Mossel Bay
Fall in love with Fusion Love is STILL in the air with Fusion Hotel’s Romantic Room Special. The five-star property in Polokwane has extended its Valentine’s special until May. For R3 000 guests can enjoy a romantic evening, including accommodation for two in a junior suite for one night; a bottle of chilled JC Le Roux on arrival; sundowners on the Terrace; a five-course dinner in Saskia Restaurant, turn-down with a decadent chocolate surprise; a romantic bath to share with music; pillow mist, massage gel and lavender mints before bed; and a five-course breakfast the next day
Asata advises… When last did you receive an ADM? Ceo of Asata, Robyn Christie, shares her views and tips…
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VERY travel professional dreads receiving an Agency Debit Memo (ADM) from an airline, but unfortunately it happens from time to time. An ADM doesn’t always mean that you don’t know what you are doing although sometimes the errors are blatant and have great consequences. In the recent years we have seen the airlines become far more sophisticated in the way they deal with ADMs, to the extent that the global carriers outsource this task to a third party company. In these outsourced agreements the remuneration of the services offered by the third party company is based on the actual recoveries
made by them on behalf of the airline. This poses a great threat to the travel agent/agency community because you can be sure it is in their interest to issue ADMs and not perhaps regard them as casually as airlines did in the past.
Diligence is critical
It is therefore critical that travel professionals are diligent not only when constructing a fare but also when processing a refund. In recent months we have noticed a definite decline in ADMs based on the construction of the fares but an increase in ADMs on refunds and reissues.
The process can be complicated but make sure you are up to date with the latest procedures. We are happy to announce that Development & Training Strategies (DTS) is hosting training on behalf of Asata in six regions – Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Bloemfontein, Port Elizabeth and George. The course content will focus on how to minimise ADMs and also to understand ADMs for both domestic and international tickets as well as refunds and reissue procedures. These training initiatives are only for Asata members because “with us you’re never on your own”. ■
MOSSEL Bay’s newest hotel, The Point Village Hotel, has opened on the corner of Bland and Marsh streets. The property features 16 en-suite rooms, each with its own kitchenette, and seven selfcatering suites, each with fully equipped kitchen and two en-suite bedrooms. All rooms have sea views and balconies and under-cover parking is available. The hotel can accommodate up to 60 guests but has no breakfast room. For guests requiring a bed-and-breakfast rate, vouchers, which are redeemable at the neighbouring Delfino’s restaurant, are supplied. The Point Village Hotel opening rate is R495 per night for a double room.
Don Group adds Krugersdorp property
THE Don Group has announced the addition of the Don Heritage Square in Krugersdorp on March 1. The move coincides with group’s expansion strategy to other parts of the country and brings the total number of hotels to 11. The property has 34 rooms, including two suites, family rooms and twin rooms. Services available will include wireless Internet access, air-conditioning, secure parking and 24-hour security and surveillance cameras. In addition, the Don Heritage Square features conference venues, restaurants, a spa, gym and hair salon.
Kaya Mawa refurbishment on track
KAYA Mawa Lodge at Likoma Island in Malawi will reopen in April after a refurbishment. Among the changes are rewiring and re-plumbing of the rooms, bathroom upgrades, and a new bar and restaurant and new water sports facility. Four new rooms created from existing structures will be turned into luxury suites with their own plunge or infinity pools. A four-bedroomed villa 10 minutes from the lodge is expected to open in June, fully staffed and with a private beach and infinity pool.
New properties for African Hotels & Adventures
AFRICAN Hotels and Adventures has reached an agreement with Wild Horizons to jointly promote the sales and marketing for both Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge and the Elephant Camp in Zimbabwe. The Elephant Camp will open in May and will offer unique luxury accommodation within 8km of Victoria Falls town centre. The camp is located on the Wild Horizons property where the current Elephant Back Safaris operate and all tented suites will have views of either the gorge or falls spray.
Lan
The airline of choice in South America
Reservations Tel: (011) 452-0244 / E-mail: lan@border-air.co.za TNW3785SD
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NEWS
AirHeads Heads Zambezi Airlines partners with Kenya Airways ZAMBEZI Airlines and Kenya Airways have entered into a commercial partnership that will see the Zambian carrier operate three weekly flights between Lusaka and Nairobi, with onward connections to all major cities served by Kenya Airways. Effective March 2, Zambezi Airlines passengers will be able to purchase tickets for travel to Nairobi, with onward connections to any of Kenya Airways’ 50 destination in Africa, the Middle East, the Far East, Asia, Europe and America. Zambezi Airlines will operate services to Nairobi on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
Arik expands West African network Bullish on the future of retail travel consultants – Andreas Ochse (left) and Tobias Jost, both Hahn Air directors global account management, with Candy Kasonkomona, regional director Southern Africa Photo: Tijana Huysamen
Hahn Air looks to Africa Staff
familiar with the company’s website. “It has a vast amount of information and a very useful tool that allows quick checking of Hahn Air plating. Dealing with us requires no contract and no sign-up. The feedback we’ve had so far is that the website is great and it’s simple. Agents see at a glance if they can plate on Hahn Air (validating code HR 169) and all they have to do thereafter is check the sales restrictions of the selected fare of the operating carrier.” On the future of retail travel consultants, Andreas says:
reporter
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AHN Air director global account management, Andreas Ochse, says the company is now looking to expand by bringing more African airlines on board. “Nigeria and Ghana are priority markets for 2010 and our goal is to be present in all BSPs globally. We’re looking for the optimum portfolio. We now have our own representation in South Africa – Candy Kasonkomona,” he told TNW recently. Andreas says agents can benefit by becoming more
“There are challenges for travel agents due to fast innovation in IT and fast changes in all aspects of travel. Travel agents must add value with their expertise and experience, for example in visa issuance, land arrangements, seating, etc. Agents will continue to exist although the landscape has changed.” In 10 years Hahn Air has grown to become an airline ticketing solution with a presence in more than 150 markets. It is on every GDS globally and issues more than two billion coupons a year on 205 airlines. n
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AF KLM extend Amadeus agreement
AMADEUS and Air France KLM have announced the extension of their full content agreement until December 2013. The agreement guarantees that Amadeus agents globally have access to the entire range of fares, schedules and inventory relating to more 74,8m seats and 90 000 flights operated by the airlines globally. The full content agreement also includes the content of subsidiary airlines Martinair and VLM and ensures access to the same content through Amadeus as through any other direct or indirect sales channel, distribution provider or website.
EY and Ukraine partner for low fares
ETIHAD Airways and Ukraine International have announced an increase in flights between South Africa and Kiev to three per week. Etihad Airways and Ukraine International are jointly offering low tax-inclusive fares for travel between South Africa and the Ukraine, with return fares starting from R5 580 in Coral Economy Class and R22 180 in Pearl Business Class. Flights operate on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Flights depart from Cape Town at 10h50 and Johannesburg at 13h55, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 00h10 the following morning. The connecting flight departs Abu Dhabi at 01h55, arriving in Kiev at 05h45 the same day. The return service departs Kiev at 13h20, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 20h30. The connecting service departs Abu Dhabi at 22h05, arriving in Johannesburg at 04h40 and in Cape Town at 07h30 the following morning.
Double-daily to Rome for EK
EFFECTIVE February 2, Emirates has increased its services to Rome to double-daily flights. The airline’s 12 times a week service to the Italian capital becomes twice a day and supplements double-daily flights to Milan and a daily flight to Venice. Passengers travelling between Dubai and Rome will now have the choice of a morning or afternoon flight seven days a week. The early flight departs Dubai at 09h25, arriving in Rome at 12h45. The return service departs Rome at 14h30, arriving in Dubai at 23h00. The second flight departs Dubai at 15h05, arriving in Rome at 18h35. The return service departs Rome at 20h25, arriving in Dubai at 05h05 the following day. The route is operated with a combination of a B777300ER and A330-200 aircraft in a three-class configuration.
for the record
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ARIK Air has expanded its regional services and now flies between Abuja and Accra (Ghana), Banjul (Gambia) and Dakar (Senegal). The Banjul and Dakar services operate twice weekly and there are four weekly non-stop services between Abuja and Accra. The airline has also launched further regional services between Lagos and Cotonou (Benin) and Dakar (Senegal) including non-stop services between Lagos and Dakar.
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In the February 10 issue, TNW said Dean Carpenter’s previous position at World Leisure Holidays was sales representative and his position at Flight Centre was regional sales manager. Dean’s previous work experience includes sales executive and regional sales manager at World Leisure Holidays and marketing manager and business development manager at FCm Travel Solutions Flight Centre. TNW apologises for the error. QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
NEWS Must-haves – what corporates want in hotels Sue Lewitton
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Year of the tiger, year of change! It’s the year of the tiger and in the Chinese zodiac the tiger has the reputation of being the animal to lead and foster change. In the spirit of the new year, Wendy Wu Tours has launched its 2010/2011 brochure and is offering a special in conjunction with Singapore Airlines. Clients can save up to R4 475pp (excl. taxes) off the normal brochure price for the following packages: China Experience Tour (R15 925pp), Vietnam at a Glance (R20 295pp), and Majestic Yangtze Tour (R21 340pp). The offer is valid until March 31 for travel until June 10 with a blackout period between March 27 and April 11. Pictured here are senior tour consultant, Cecilia Dos Reis (left) and business development manager, Alet Joubert Photo: Tijana Huysamen
Turkish upbeat for 2010 Natalia Thomson TURKISH Airlines’ rapid route expansion and frequency increases appear further entrenched with the announcement the airline is to acquire 35 B737 jets – 20 definite and 15 optional. The carrier has this month announced frequency increases on the IstanbulHamburg and Istanbul-Prague
routes. The former will be increased from 14 to 17 flights per week from May 1, while Prague flights will be increased from nine to 13 flights per week. The service between Istanbul and Tripoli will increase from seven to 11 flights per week from March 2. The expansion plans come on the back of Association of European Airlines’ finalised 2010 traffic
data, which paint a bleak picture of a difficult year. Turkish emerged as one of three carriers with increases in passenger numbers, announcing 12,3% growth in this area. The airline has moved from seventh to fourth place among AEA members, ranked by passengers carried. Istanbul is the ninth-largest hub airport in Europe. ■
VERY new hotel that opens worldwide provides elaborate descriptions of its facilities for corporate guests. Developers and marketers promote spas, gyms, WiFi, cutting-edge conference room technology, butler services and iPod docking stations as not just ‘nice-to-haves’ but absolute essentials. But how do corporate travellers feel – what facilities are nonnegotiable? The single most important factor for the business traveller is location. Edcon corporate travel manager, Linette Mulder, says her company’s merchants and buyers need to be close to shops they plan to do business with. “It’s Oxford Street in London, Macy’s in New York and Boulevard Haussmann in Paris.” All the corporate travel managers TNW contacted listed location as nonnegotiable and one of the top, if not the top factor, when it came to selecting hotels for their clients. Another important facility for corporate travellers is a technologically up-to-date business centre and WiFi. Graham Tate, divisional executive: PAFM for the Development Bank of Southern Africa, says although many corporates now travel with 3G modems and smartphones, most still consider WiFi a nice-to-have. Mike Gray, ceo of Uniglobe Travel, agrees that a business centre is always a plus and that WiFi is necessary for his clients to work online while they are away.
Quick check-in and check-out also ranked highly in terms of business traveller priorities. Most corporate travel organisers believe if they use a hotel regularly their guests should be offered some type of express service to avoid hanging around reception desks filling in lengthy forms and indemnities. On other facilities and services, corporate travel managers are split. For example, Graham says a hotel gym is his company’s top requirement while Mike says it is far down his clients’ list of priorities. Other factors that are more important to some travel managers than others are room size and 24-hour room service. Way down on everyone’s list of hotel essentials is the concierge service. All corporate travel managers contacted said this was not a factor they took into consideration when selecting a hotel for their travellers. Although a long list of hotel facilities and services certainly looks impressive, the trend now seems to be for business travellers to look for something a bit homelier and less formal. Mike says: “Guest houses are very popular with corporate clients due to their friendliness and home-awayfrom-home atmosphere.” He cites the honesty bar system used by most guest house owners versus the overcharged mini bars and room service often found in large hotels. “Corporates also enjoy the casual lounges and good value instead of being treated as though they’re just another number, which can be the case in large hotels,” he adds. ■
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Wednesday February 17 2010 n 7
Youth With a host of options available, youth travel promises to be more adventurous in 2010 than ever before. The biggest problem will be choosing where to go. Melody Brandon reports‌. 8 n Wednesday February 17 2010
QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
Study and work in the UK
W
HEN the British government, a stalwart in the youth travel experience, withdrew its two-year working visa two years ago, hundreds of young South Africans were left stranded. But they need despair no longer. “There is good news for 18 to 45-year-olds as they are now eligible for a study visa, enabling them to study in the UK while working at the same time,” says Liezl Gericke, md of STA, youth travel specialists.
Even applicants who did not pass matric can apply for this visa, provided they enrol in foundationlevel study programmes. “Many of our graduates like the idea of studying in the UK as they know an international qualification will add value to their CV, enhancing future employment prospects. Once graduates have finished their course they may also qualify for the International Graduate Scheme where they can work in the UK for up to two years,” says Liezl.
Fast facts about UK study visas:
● Applicants must be between 18 and 45. ● The applicant’s primary objective must be to study in the UK and they must be prepared to study for a minimum of 15 hours a week. ● Applicants must have sufficient funds to pay for their academic course for one year. ● Course enrolment must be in line with prior studies and career path. ● Applicants must be able to fulfil the British High Commission’s maintenance requirement for the study visa. This means the applicant would have access to approximately £7 200 (R88 662) to cover associated costs in the UK. Contiki is offering an 11-day adventure, Amsterdam to Barcelona,
it! priced from R14 075 per person, twin share, land only. An early Book
payment discount of R740 applies to all bookings booked and paid in full, six months prior to travel. This trip includes 10 nights’ hotel accommodation, breakfast daily, six three-course dinners, all sightseeing as per itinerary and the benefits of Contiki’s road crew.
So much to choose from... YOUTH travel specialists say while the UK is still a popular destination, working holidays in the States have increased in popularity. Both STA and Flight Centre Student Flights have seen more interest in camp counsellors and ski lodge work in the US as well as an increase in au pair numbers. Carolina de Figueiredo, sales and business manager for GAP Adventures, represented by Development Promotions, says there has been a shift of student travellers looking for more grass roots, authentic styles of travel. Gap Adventures offers a host of products that may appeal to the socially responsible, the adventurous, or the independent traveller: ● Yolo (you only live once): An affordable tour where you can control
your costs by choosing most of your own activities and meals, it is geared to the 18 to 30-something crowd, who have a 24-hour appetite for adventure. ● Independent: For the traveller who does not want to follow a fixed itinerary, it gives the traveller freedom to arrange their holiday the way they want to. ● Voluntours: These adventures have been designed as a way to give back to communities and regions visited. The greatest benefit to travellers includes more time in the community and a hands-on contribution. For the traveller looking for a more structured tour, Contiki offers a host of destination options, as well as early-payment discounts and discounts for friends travelling together.
Top tips:
● Remember to book flights early if travelling to many destinations. ● Travel insurance is a must; remember to get the correct level of cover. ● Use the Internet. In this day and age youth travellers are incredibly tech savvy; make sure you are an expert on what you are selling or you could lose the sale to the Internet.
Want to sell it? Remember to ask: Kumuka business development manager, Jo Bates, suggests you ask the following when determining the best product for your client: ● Where do you want to go? Don’t be frightened to make suggestions and use your knowledge of the area. ● What exactly do you want to do? Establish how much travel they are planning and how much working/ QUICK READ FOR busiest people
volunteering and free time they want and strike a balance. ● Are you travelling alone? Group travel offers security and value for money and may be an option the traveller wants to consider. ● What is your budget? Having an inclusive product means you know what you have to pay for and essential items and major highlights are included.
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TNW5102
jobs
our website is updated daily! visit www.specialized.co.za
To advertise on this page contact Natalie on 011 214 7330 or email nataliew@nowmedia.co.za
Aircraft Maintenance Planner – E/Rand A Licensed Aircraft Engineer with aircraft maintenance planning experience is required. Good knowledge of CATS and CARS is essential. IAS computer literacy is highly preferable. Joyce Airline Agent – E/Suburbs International carrier requires an experienced Reservations & Ticketing Consultant. Will handle reservations, ticketing, fare calculations and group bookings. R8000/R10000. Joyce
Soft Skills Executive Trainer – Head Office
Willards Travel is currently looking to fill the position of a senior travel consultant in our King William’s Town office. Applicants must have a minimum of 5 years proven international sales experience in the travel industry, Galileo qualifications and references from previous employers. CVs to be emailed to ‘info@willardstravel.co.za’ or faxed to ‘086 571 9074’. No telephonic applications will be accepted. Successful candidate to begin no later than 1/4/2010.
Reporting to the Learning and Development Training Manager Requirements: • Grade 12 (essential) • Honours degree in Psychology or Human Behaviour (essential) • One year's training experience (essential) • Coaching experience (Desirable) • MS Office skills • Presentation skills • Verbal and written communication skills • People skills • Interpersonal skills • Administrative skills • Knowledge of the aviation industry • Knowledge of the relevant field of training • Knowledge of passenger handling and check-in. Duties include: • Transfer company information to staff in line with company culture and policies • Train new and existing employees on relevant soft skills programmes for corporate training • Complete the necessary administrative duties within set timeframes • Build rapport with delegates and create an atmosphere of trust in which delegates can freely express their needs and concerns • Take responsibility for updating knowledge and enhance performance as a trainer • Share newly acquired information/knowledge with colleagues to create a learning environment.
Snr Car Rental Dispatcher – E/Suburbs Relevant experience together with strong logistical and HR skills are required by this top car rental company. A mature person is required to take on this highly responsible role. Joyce
Please send your CV to Dean Prigge via e-mail: dean.prigge@comair.co.za Closing date: 5 March 2010 Please note that the right is reserved not to appoint should operational requirements demand so. In accordance with the EE Act, preference will be given to suitably qualified candidates from the designated groups.
1682 TNW rec ad:1682
1/28/10
2:29 PM
Intermediate Cons – Inhouse Braamfontein Amadeus is essential plus own transport. Be part of a team servicing prestigious corporate company. Candidates with a minimum of 3 years corporate consulting experience should apply. Tina
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TNW5104
JUNIOR
CORPORATE CONSULTANT
Senior Management Career Opportunities
Buccleuch, Sandton
MUST HAVE ● 2 years travel agency experience ● AMADEUS ● Knowledge of Excel ● Own car
Salary R7500.00 Please forward CV to jasonw@vodamail.co.za
Wings® Corporate Travel, a rapidly expanding international corporate travel management company, has the following Senior Management positions available: • Head of Operations - South Africa • Head of Contact Centre
Move into inbound travel – Durban If you have between 2 to 5 years travel industry experience and have a passion for South Africa, we have an opportunity for you! Additional training on inbound travel will be provided. Candidates must have excellent geographical, destination and product knowledge of South Africa. Tina
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Highly negotiable pacakage offered by Market Leader SENIOR INBOUND CONSUlTANT/ for your B.Comm/equivalent and ability to lead SANDTON department of 45 people!
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SAlES HandsREPRESENTATIVE/SANDTON on position with total responsibility for Drive Key Sales andManagers Develop Account andRelationships Business with the Development Travel Agents in Gauteng!! Managers! WHOlESAlE CONSUlTANT/ BRAND MANAGER/ JOHANNESBURG NORTHERN SUBURBS Utilise your North America experience Person strong in Marketing invited to join to joinleading Leading Concern!! Wholesaler!
Branch Manager – Durban A position exists for a dynamic and energetic candidate to run the retail travel outlet for a highly reputable global company. Previous staff management exp essential. Kati.
JUNIOR CONSUlTANT/ SENIOR INBOUND CONSULTANT/BOKSBURG RIVONIA Join well established, friendly company and work Minimum closer 6 months experience to home! to join Market Leader!!
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Calling all hot shot sales executives! Promote this company with pride! Well established, prominent operator wants a dynamic, driven and sales focused representative to call on travel agents. Your proven record of success in a sales role for a travel agent or tour operator will be rewarded by this elite company. R17 000 ctc plus sales incentive!
The opportunity you have been waiting for! Renowned hotel chain requires a self motivated and sales focused Executive to call on the corporate market as well as travel groups. Your vivacious personality coupled with at least 5 years sales experience will clinch the deal for you! To R25 000 ctc
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Tel: Jill (031) 201 8330 durban@nowjobs.co.za See our website for a further selection of exciting vacancies! www.leebotti.co.za
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Lead, motivate & develop a team of tip top Inbound Consultants in reaching targets and selling like a bull in a china shop! Managerial expertise, coupled with your highly energized leadership abilities secures you this hot seat. Swanky offices with super systems & procedures to steer you confidently. R25 000+
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So many perks offered to the extrovert with a passion for the travel industry, as well as for SA! Assist busy department with inbound tour organisations & enjoy the thrill of closing the sale and working in a very incentive-driven environment. Retail or wholesale exp ess. Numerous roles – salary’s to R9000!
TRAVEL SPECIALIST - HELdERbERG
Senior consultant required for top end agency with loads of German clientele. Your fluency in German coupled with minimum 5 years Galileo experience secures! Wonderful team environment with offices in easily accessible location. Salary from R12 000
dURbAN HAVE YOU GOT OOMPH? - WESTVILLE
Busy leisure agency specialising in niche market! Seek outgoing & jovial person with 1-2 years industry exp + own international travelling exposure. Will suit energetic, go-getter who enjoys earning commission whilst working as a team. R4,000 basic + lucrative comm!
BEE Manager – Cape Town R14000/R15000 plus full co car and benefits. Strong leadership and management skills required to lead a team of car rental agents and support staff. Highly reputable co. Kati Snr Corporate Cons – Woodmead A top senior with a minimum of 15 years experience is required. Our client is prepared to offer an excellent package in return for this expertise! Kati Snr Leisure Cons – Fourways area Your expertise in leisure travel will be appreciated by this busy agency. Position offers a high basic salary plus commission scheme. Candidates must be on a very senior level! Kati Int/Snr Cons – Pretoria Based in the Waterkloof area handling 70% corporate travel, 30% leisure. This is initially a fixed term contract opportunity. Galileo essential. Tina Temp Int/Snr Cons – Edenvale area Amadeus is essential. To commence as soon as possible. Tina Wholesale Consultants – N/Suburbs Previous experience as a Wholesale Consultant is essential together with excellent product knowledge on either USA, Far East to Europe. Established operator and great manager! Kati
Office Hrs (011) 884-9113 Website: www.specialized.co.za e-mail: kati@sgroup.co.za
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Snr Incentives Account Manager – N/Suburbs R21000/R23000. Be part of a highly successful inbound incentives company handling the full portfolio of an Account Manager. A very strong knowledge of Southern Africa, particularly Cape Town, the bush and Zambia is required. Will be responsible for designing programmes for new and existing clients. Kati Inbound Consulting with a difference – N/Suburbs Will be based within the marketing department of well established and highly successful inbound operator handling primarily educational and media trips. Must have strong Inbound Travel experience. Kati
• Head of Business Development RSA
Personnel with the personal touch
SpecialiZed Travel perSonnel
Wednesday February 17 2010 n 11
TNW NEWS
Hotel bookings – unpredictable around the World Cup Hilka Birns
with Cape Town slightly behind but expected to pick up after the opening of Parliament. Hoteliers are expecting a lot of conferencing to take place from now until June and again from mid-July until the end of November, says Susanne Faussner-Ringer, md of Greenways Hotel in Cape Town.
S
OUTH African hoteliers are reporting accelerated demand as corporate travellers try to cram in all their travel ahead of the blocked-out FIFA World Cup period. Phillip Couvaras, Fedhasa Cape chairman and gm of the Table Bay Hotel, says the business year started off slowly around the country in January but appeared to normalise in February. “A new flurry of quotes is being processed, many materialising for the months approaching the tournament.” However, he says the incentive market has “all but dried up”.
More corporate travel
There is increased corporate travel at present, says Sean Bradley, director of sales and marketing at the Radisson Blu Sandton. However, he predicts this will decline during the Easter holidays and
Short lead times
Sean Bradley then slump from mid-May because of nervousness about availability as international media begin entering the country ahead of the World Cup. Danny Bryer, Protea’s director sales, marketing and revenue management, agrees it is business as usual at the moment. He says corporate travel in Johannesburg is running at almost full capacity
However, bookings are coming in at extremely short notice, says Willie Williams, sales and marketing manager at the Sheraton Pretoria. “We are experiencing much shorter lead times, sometimes only a week or two ahead of a big conference.” He expects corporates to stop travelling from June 1. The prospect of empty hotel rooms for two weeks ahead of the World Cup is of great concern to many hoteliers, after FIFA’s official accommodation broker, MATCH, recently released 450 000 rooms back into
the market for the four days immediately prior to kickoff. MATCH has until April 10 to release all unsold inventory without incurring cancellation penalties.
“The prospect of empty hotel rooms for two weeks ahead of the World Cup is of great concern to many hoteliers.” This should still give hotel groups enough time to sell the rooms if they position themselves correctly, says Nicholas Barenblatt, Protea’s group marketing and advertising manager. Another worry is an expected slump in August after the World Cup as a result of less demand and spent corporate travel budgets.
Falling rates
Sean predicts this will result in falling rates in the last quarter of the
year, which in turn will see good deals and weekend specials. Nils Heckscher, md of the Winchester Mansions Hotel in Cape Town, says his first quarter is looking good after a brilliant January. “However, the problem is that one doesn’t know what is happening next week, which makes it difficult to plan. “Bookings are extremely short-notice and some guests say they will rather not come in the World Cup year.” “People have many new options in Cape Town, so they can pick and choose where they want to stay and get great deals,” says Phillip. “They book last minute but they are booking!” Susanne says: “Last week I was sitting on occupancy of 14% for February, this week on 30% for February. In 2008 we finished February on 88%. Planning under these conditions is very difficult.”
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“Flights to Walvis Bay: Fantastic news! I hope it starts soon!” Hannelore Scholtz, Travel Magic cc, Walvis Bay, Namibia “As long as they offer a service on the days that their competitors don’t. I often find they all fly on one day and then the gap days are still gap days – which is pretty pointless.” Diane Acton, Uniglobe eTravel is the ITC market leader in South Africa and assists senior Travel Consultants and Travel business owners to realise their dreams. If you have ever dreamt of owning your own travel business or would like to cut costs by doing away with your IATA license and improve your current business efficiencies then you should call eTravel. We run the back office for over 190 Independent Travel Companies and specialise in making your travel business a success by offering the best commissions, overrides & a comprehensive support structure. If you have a client base, 5 years retail travel experience or already own your own business but want to make more, then contact us! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is!
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12 n Wednesday February 17 2010
HOTELIERS are finding it difficult to predict hotel occupancies over the FIFA World Cup, saying a lot will depend on last-minute bookings and pricing, especially of the airlines. At least one of South Africa’s biggest hotel groups is in discussion with local carriers about the high fares being charged, which is feared may discourage fans from attending. “We just hope the airlines will come to the party,” says Greenways Susanne Faussner-Ringer. She says hoteliers are cautiously optimistic because they are hoping for a last-minute run
on rooms. Meanwhile, Willie Williams says the Sheraton Pretoria is not contracted to MATCH but is receiving daily inquiries for World Cup accommodation. “But we find that people are experiencing a snowball effect in that they need game and airline tickets first before they are able to book rooms.” He says bookings for peak match days are looking excellent but there is still availability for the periods in between. Protea’s Danny Bryer says demand during the World Cup is difficult to predict because the market is so volatile, but
he believes major centres such as Johannesburg and Cape Town will be full for the duration of the tournament, while other cities will be full for some of the time. Sean Bradley says most of the Radisson Blu Sandton’s 290 rooms are booked with deposits paid for the entire World Cup period but that some of its 11 penthouses are still available. The hotel has not gone the MATCH route either but has stuck with key business partnerships. He says its rates for the World Cup are “slightly higher” than normal but “realistic”. n
Thai Airways’ return delayed until May natalia tHomson THAI Airways’ expected March relaunch of its JohannesburgBangkok route will now be delayed until May 17, gm Italy and northwest Africa, Wit Kitchathorn, told TNW. In September 2009, TNW reported that the airline would resume its services in March after pulling out of the route for a second time in January 2009 due to poor loads. Until now, none of the local companies vying for the GSA has been advised whether or
not they have been successful in their bid to represent the airline locally. While some operators say they will adopt a wait-and-see attitude before giving the airline business, others say the four-weekly direct B777200ER service will be hugely beneficial to South African holidaymakers. “We will favourably support the airline. The flights are direct and offer great connections to Phuket and Koh Samui as well as connections to the Far East,”
says Thompsons Holidays pr manager John Ridler. South African passengers would also benefit from a stop over in Bangkok if they fly Thai. A recent report in the Bangkok Post quotes Thai Airways International executive vp for commercial affairs, Pruet Boobphakam, as saying the flight could possibly be extended to Cape Town before returning to Bangkok. Also said to be on the cards is a codeshare agreement with Star Alliance partner, South African Airways. n
QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS