FlySafair has pledged cooperation with the National Consumer Commission (NCC) investigating its overbooking practices. While apologizing for any inconvenience caused, the airline emphasizes that overbooking is a standard industry practice employed to manage operations, mitigate financial losses from no-shows, and keep air travel affordable. FlySafair calls for a fair and contextual investigation that considers the broader airline industry's practices.
FlySafair says it will cooperate in the investigation but wants the Consumer Commission to investigate the wider practice of overbooking.FlySafair says it will engage constructively with the National Consumer Commission (NCC) after the Commission announced on Wednesday that it will investigate the airline’s overbooking of seats on its flights, but it called for fairness in the investigation.
In its answer to the consumer, FlySafair apologised and said it does overbook flights to ensure it keep its tickets as affordable as possible for its passengers. “We do see how inconvenient this can be and therefore offer compensation for passengers that were not able to take the flight they booked. We’d like to apologise to all passengers who have been denied boarding due to overbooking. We know how disappointing this can be. We are committed to transparency and customer satisfaction,” FlySafair said.The NCC initiated an investigation into FlySafair’s conduct of overbooking and/or overselling to assess its compliance with sections of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA).Asked for comment on the investigation, Kirby Gordon, chief marketing officer of FlySafair, said the airline acknowledges the NCC’s announcement of an investigation. “We welcome the opportunity to provide clarity on this issue and remain confident that our policies and practices are not only compliant with the CPA but also among the most transparent and consumer-focused in the industry.” However, Kirby says it is “crucial that this investigation be conducted fairly and contextually”. He says overbooking is not unique to FlySafair and is a standard and globally accepted practice employed by airlines to manage operations efficiently, mitigate the financial impact of no-show passengers and keep air travel affordable. “This practice has been used by all local airlines, past and present, as well as international carriers selling tickets to South African consumers. Any investigation should take this broader context into account and not disproportionately target FlySafair for a practice that is integral to the functioning of the entire aviation industry.” According to Kirby, FlySafair’s approach to overbooking is among the most conservative in the industry, and impacts no more than 1% of its available capacity. “Denied boardings are extremely rare and when they do occur, FlySafair provides compensation that is fair, lenient and reflective of our commitment to customer care. “We also pride ourselves on having some of the most transparent and straightforward terms and conditions in the market, ensuring our customers are fully informed about our policies.” Kirby explains that overbooking is a necessary practice for the sustainability of airlines, allowing carriers to manage inevitable operational challenges while keeping ticket prices accessible to the majority of travellers. “Without a degree of breakage, airline profitability would be severely affected, ultimately leading to increased fares for passengers. FlySafair applies this principle in a responsible and customer-centric manner, ensuring that we balance efficiency with fairness.”He says FlySafair is fully prepared to engage constructively with the NCC and will provide all required information and context to assist the investigation. “However, we firmly believe this process must include a holistic review of the practices of all airlines operating in South Africa, both local and international, to ensure the findings are fair, balanced and in the best interest of consumers.” Kirby emphasises that FlySafair remains committed to transparency, customer satisfaction and adherence to all regulatory standards. “We are confident that this investigation will confirm our position as a responsible, consumer-focused airline operating well within the bounds of the CPA.”FlySafair’s future up in the air: Bid to keep airline flyin
AVIATION CONSUMER PROTECTION FLYSAFAIR OVERBOOKING SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
NCC Investigates FlySafair Overbooking ComplaintsThe National Consumer Commission (NCC) has initiated an investigation into FlySafair, following complaints about overbooking practices that have led to passengers being denied boarding on their confirmed flights.
Read more »
FlySafair's overbooking strategy under scrutiny as NCC investigatesThe National Consumer Commission (NCC) has launched an investigation into FlySafair following the airline's admission of overbooking flights.
Read more »
FlySafair Under Investigation for Overbooking PracticesThe National Consumer Commission (NCC) is investigating FlySafair after the airline admitted to selling more tickets than available on some flights, leaving passengers stranded. The airline defended the practice, citing efforts to keep prices low, but the NCC urges passengers to lodge complaints and FlySafair to cooperate with the investigation.
Read more »
FlySafair urges ACSA to issue refunds after avoidable fuel supply delaysFlySafair has stated that it should be refunded by Airports Company South Africa, as far as passenger charges are concerned. This follows after the heavy delays on Monday which were the result of refueling charges, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Read more »
SABC News - Breaking news, special reports, world, business, sport coverage of all South African current events. Africa's news leader.FlySafair demands a refund from ACSA for passenger charges following flight delays.
Read more »
LIFT and FlySafair respond to price gouging allegations during the holiday seasonSouth African airlines LIFT and FlySafair defend their pricing against accusations of gouging as they navigate soaring operational costs post-pandemic.
Read more »