SunExpress has partnered with South African Airways (SAA) this winter season, allocating 4 Boeing 737-800 aircraft and their accompanying crew for Johannesburg-based operations. Here are the key details of this significant collaboration!
As one of Turkey’s leading tourism carriers, SunExpress has taken a noteworthy step in aviation during the winter season. Under its agreement with South African Airways, SunExpress has leased 4 Boeing 737-800 aircraft based in Johannesburg. Along with the planes, 48 pilots, 100 cabin crew, and 6 technicians will also serve in South Africa.
Efficient Operations Through “Wet Lease”
The “wet lease” method, which involves leasing both aircraft and crew, is a valuable solution for managing seasonal demand in aviation. This model allows airlines to use their fleet and staff more efficiently. SunExpress has committed its planes and crew to SAA operations until April under this arrangement.
Expansion Driven by Past Success
Following the success of last year’s collaboration, which began with 2 aircraft, South African Airways has requested 4 planes this year. Flights from Antalya to Johannesburg include a refueling stop in Nairobi and take approximately 9.5 hours. Additionally, SunExpress has leased 9 more aircraft to AJet through a separate agreement.
Voluntary Participation and Rigorous Processes
SunExpress personnel participate on a voluntary basis, with crews stationed in South Africa for at least two months. The cockpit crew is entirely composed of SunExpress staff, while the cabin crew includes members from both SunExpress and SAA. Technical teams are based in Johannesburg and Cape Town to oversee maintenance operations.
All technical and operational procedures are meticulously managed to ensure flight safety. Aircraft Maintenance Technician Mehmet Çetin emphasized: “Our goal is to achieve a flawless operation in South Africa.”
“A Great Opportunity to Learn From Each Other”
SunExpress Flight Operations Director Captain Boğaç Yoldaş highlighted: “As a company with 35 years of experience, we are the first Turkish airline to launch aircraft leasing operations in South Africa. This partnership is a significant opportunity for both companies to learn from each other.” SAA’s Operations Captain Özkan Uysal added: “From risk analysis to training, every phase was carefully planned.”
The aircraft display South African Airways logos, and safety remains the top priority throughout the operation.(tolgaozbek)
© AeroHaber.com
Aviation News and Defense Industry news published on our website cannot be used without proper attribution.
