THE Airports Company South Africa today suspended all Air Namibia flights from its airports, citing an outstanding amount owed to the company by the airline.
“As a well-run and profitable state-owned company, we are obliged to ensure that airlines and other business partners settle any outstanding accounts,” a communique from the airports company detailed.
While the Airports Company South Africa would not disclose the specific amounts owed by Air Namibia, it explained that as a cash client the airline is required to settle its accounts every Monday, but has not adhered to its acknowledgment of debts nor the cash basis terms for using airports owned by the airports company.
“Airports Company South Africa regrets that this decision became necessary. The suspension of an airline takes place only after considerable engagement with an airline’s management,” the company stated.
Following the company’s announcement, Air Namibia issued a statement in which it said it has worked out a plan to avoid the ban.
The airline today made a partial payment to the South African company, allowing Air Namibia to continue its operations to and from South African airports
“The decision to allow us to continue operating was met in good faith from their end because of a good long-standing relationship we have with them for more than three decades,” the statement read.
* More details in tomorrow’s edition.
