As part of efforts to improve efficiency of airport operations, Airports Company South Africa has announced that, from June, it will publish the on-time performance of all domestic airlines, making these results public. This, Acsa says, is in agreement with domestic airlines.

“The purpose is not to penalise or ‘name and shame’ the airlines but to be transparent from a performance point of view in the interest of the airport community and passengers,” says Acsa’s Group Manager of Communications, Solomon Makgale.

Commercial Director of 1time Airline, Desmond O’Connor, confirms that it has given written permission to Acsa to display 1time’s on-time performance results. “We initiated discussions with Acsa to make these stats available to the general public on their website and show them what the true picture is regarding all airlines. 1time’s view is that the public deserves to know the truth, and from an independent party, so that the stats accurately reflect the true performance results.
 
“I think a lot of people will be astonished at what the true picture is in terms of low-fare airlines versus legacy carriers.

“Not only would this change perceptions but I also believe it would be a huge driver for underperforming airlines to try and improve, resulting in greater customer service to everyone,” he says.

Mango also welcomes the publication of on-time performance results. “On-time performance has become one of the significant differentiating factors between airlines in a highly competitive market place,” notes Communications Manager, Hein Kaiser. “For the past three years, Mango has, on average, been the most on-time domestic airline. Third-party publication of this information is welcomed.”

The airline recently celebrated its third year running as the most on-time domestic airline. “Over the past 36 months Mango has averaged an on-time performance in excess of 90%, says CEO, Nico Bezuidenhout.
 
“A common metric or basis for measurement is always the healthiest way of doing things, as it seems that performance claims made currently are not off consistent bases,” notes Comair’s Executive Manager of Group Marketing, Heidi Brauer. “Bottom line is that we are committed to improving on-time performance whether or not such an initiative goes ahead. Ultimately we don’t need a big stick or big brother to drive our performance. We have a responsibility to our customers.”