Mbalula: Flights to operate from 4 airports

Aircraft will take to the skies on June 1 but will be limited to domestic travel for business purposes.

Mbalula briefed media on Saturday on the Covid-19 transport regulations.

“Inside the cabin, full capacity will be allowed,” he said.

“It must be noted that the risk of Covid-19 on board a commercial passenger airline is lower than in any other confined spaces.

“All our commercial aircrafts are fitted with high efficiency particulate filters.”

ALSO READ:

Professional teams, athletes to resume training under level 3

Recreational sport remains banned. Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa briefed the media on Saturday on how sport will be affected when the lockdown regulations are eased to level 3 on Monday. "The regulations now allow professional non-contact sports to host sports events without spectators and professional athlete to train irrespective to whether it is contact or non-contact sport, in a staggered way," said Mthethwa.

The minister said the resumption of domestic flights will be rolled out in three phases, starting with the golden triangle airports – O.R Tambo, King Shaka, Cape Town International, as well as Lanseria International Airport.

Mbalula added that no catering would be offered during flights.

“The last row will be reserved for isolation of suspected cases. All aircrafts must be disinfected before entering into service and after each flight.”

Meanwhile, Mbalula reiterated previously existing regulations about public transport.

“Capacity restrictions remain, minibus-taxis remain at 70% loading capacity, buses must adhere to a maximum loading capacity of 50%, taking due regard of standing passengers, eHailing and metred taxis remain at 50% loading capacity and shuttle, chauffeur and charter services remain at 50% loading capacity.”

According to Mbalula, the majority of the sector is ready to resume operations from Monday.