Last week Friday the airline had to cancel domestic and regional flights after thousands of workers affiliated to the National Union of Mineworkers and the South African Cabin Crew Association went on strike.  

"We are pleased that SAA is now able to increase services and to offer our customers more flights on the African continent, and that all our international flights are back on schedule. It is also important to assure SAA’s customers that our operations are safe and that the airline will never compromise on this core responsibility," said SAA’s chief commercial officer, Philip Saunders.

"All SAA’s international flights are now fully operational. SAA would like to record its appreciation for those staff deciding to work despite receiving threats and intimidation from the unions. It is clear that SAA’s people are increasingly determined to put our customers first."

Saunders said SAA would rebook customers travelling on other regional routes wherever possible.

"Once again, we apologise to all our passengers for all the inconvenience caused. We are continuing discussions with labour and remain committed to reach a prompt resolution in the best interests of all parties."

Customers were requested not to travel to their departure airport unless they were in possession of a rebooked itinerary.  Those seeking a refund or wanting to rebook their travel on a future SAA service would have until 30 November 2019 to finalise their arrangements.

African News Agency