Monday, March 08, 2010 TNW pick of the week: ‘Give us a chance’ – SAA’s Siza
By Melody Brandon
NEWLY appointed SAA ceo Siza Mzimela has an affinity for happy endings and her plans for the beleaguered airline are no different.
Despite the problems SAA has experienced and the challenges Mzimela will face in her new role, she is confident that her previous aviation experience and passion for the industry will stand her in good stead to bring a happy ending to years of strife at the national carrier.
“There has been a certain amount of confidence lost as a result of what has happened in the past. There are good things that people have done and continue to do every day but these have not been visible in the industry. I hope we can rebuild the confidence and trust that has been lost,” said Mzimela.
She said proper governance and internal procedures would need to be built on in the coming months.
“Work has already been done in this area but we need to build further on this and ensure we are a perfect example of proper governance in any state-owned enterprise.”
Siza recognises that a good working relationship with the travel trade is vital to the success of the airline.
One of the areas of focus for the trade, she says, is to ensure proper communication. Rebuilding and improving the lines of communication between the airline and trade is a top priority for Mzimela.
“Please give SAA chance. Don’t allow one or two negative actions to dent the image of the airline. There are thousands of people who are doing their best every day.”
Read the full article in TNW March 17 and also take a look at our exclusive one-on-one interview with Siza Mzimela in a Take 5 on eTNW this week.
Other headlines to look out for:
• 2010 airfares could contravene CPA • ADM penalties loom – LH • Airfares could crash soon