SOUTH Africa has announced that it will be opening up its airspace for international travels from today October 1, 2020 with strict adherence to the nation’s COVID-19 protocols. Initial flights will be limited to the main international airports: OR Tambo International, Cape Town International and King Shaka International.
This is coming as operations of the country’s national carrier, South African Airways (SAA) were immediately suspended by administrators in charge of the struggling airline on Tuesday.
South Africa which closed its borders to foreigners in March noted that it is ready to facilitate cross-border travels as it continues to adhere to the measures and protocols that have been in place for domestic travel over the past few months.
Travellers will be urged to download the Covid Alert South Africa mobile app and must comply with the following requirements:
- On arrival, travellers will need to present a negative Covid-19 test result not older than 72 hours from time of departure from the country of origin. They are also expected to possess a mandatory travel insurance which is supposed to cover the COVID-19 test and quarantine costs. ;
- All travellers will be screened on arrival and those presenting with symptoms will be required to have Covid-19 test; and
- Where necessary, travellers will need to enter mandatory quarantine facilities at their own cost.
The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) said, “We expect the number of international passengers to grow gradually, as this is an important step on the road to recovery. We greatly look forward to once again welcoming international visitors to our International Airports and to South Africa.”
Meanwhile, South Africa’s flag carrier, South African Airways, has suspended all operations while its administrators try to raise cash while the airline’s rescue practitioners have warned of a lack of funds while keeping creditors updated over the deteriorating situation.
In a bid to preserve what little money remains, the administrators have immediately ceased all airline operations and put it under “care and maintenance” until crucial funding can be negotiated for restructuring.
