Comair set to permanently exit the skies as no angel investors step up

09 June 2022 - 11:06
subscribe Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package.
Subscribe now
Comair, which grounded its British Airways (domestic) and Kulula flights a week ago due to a funding crunch, has failed to raise the cash it needs to return to the air. File photo.
Comair, which grounded its British Airways (domestic) and Kulula flights a week ago due to a funding crunch, has failed to raise the cash it needs to return to the air. File photo.
Image: Eric Greer

Comair, which grounded its British Airways (domestic) and Kulula flights a week ago due to a funding crunch, has failed to raise the cash it needs to return to the air.

Its business rescue practitioners said in a statement on Thursday the “requisite funding could not be raised for the company to continue with its operations”.

“Accordingly, the company's joint business rescue practitioners give notice that they no longer believe that there is a reasonable prospect that the company can be rescued.”

Comair employs 1,200 people.

Four out of every 10 domestic tickets sold in SA are BA or Kulula tickets‚ and Comair said recently it had been on track to fly 4-million passengers this year.

It went into business rescue in 2020 during the Covid-19 lockdown. The airline company, which has a 76-year history in SA, was hit hard by travel restrictions and the rising oil price.

It was also grounded for five days in March by the SA Civil Aviation Authority due to safety concerns. 

TimesLIVE

Support independent journalism by subscribing to the Sunday Times. Just R20 for the first month.


subscribe Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package.
Subscribe now

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.