Air France-KLM on the reopening of SA’s travel industry under level 1 lock-down

In light of the possibility of South Africa moving to a level one lockdown, the travel industry is gearing up for a potential reopening of international borders. The impact of the travel restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic has been severe, especially on Africa's airline industry. Air France-KLM, one of the major players in the industry, has expressed readiness to resume operations once borders are opened. Wouter Vermeulen, the General Manager for Southern Africa at Air France-KLM, shared insights on the safety protocols and preparations that the airline has implemented to ensure the well-being of passengers and staff amidst the ongoing pandemic. Vermeulen highlighted the collaboration with airport authorities and civil aviation organizations to establish stringent safety measures both on the ground and in the air. These measures include social distancing protocols, increased sanitation procedures, mandatory use of personal protective equipment, and the installation of HEPA filters in aircraft to ensure the circulation of clean air. With the anticipation of borders reopening, Vermeulen emphasized the airline's commitment to ensuring a safe and secure travel experience for passengers. While acknowledging the concerns around demand and profitability, Vermeulen remained optimistic about the industry's ability to adapt to the new normal. He mentioned that the airline would cater to various travel needs, including essential and repatriation flights, in addition to traditional tourism. Vermeulen also addressed the issue of pricing strategy post-reopening, stating that pricing would be determined by demand and supply dynamics. He suggested that prices were likely to stabilize post-crisis, aligning more or less with pre-pandemic levels. However, the long-term outlook remains uncertain and contingent on the industry's ability to navigate financial challenges and adapt to evolving market conditions. As the travel industry prepares for a potential resurgence, Air France-KLM stands ready to play its part in reviving international travel and contributing to the recovery of the aviation sector in South Africa.