Come what may, national carrier will restructure by July

DESPITE its estimated R1,4bn debt and apparent failure to sign partnership deals with stronger airlines, Namibia's national carrier remains committed to restructuring by the deadline of July 1. This according to Air Namibia's public relations and advertising manager, Elison Hijarunguru. “There is no doubt in our mind that there will be far-reaching changes in the new Air Namibia, but we strongly believe that these changes will be for the better." He is quoted on the Namibian government website as saying that the national airline will continue flying. “We have, however, realised that it has become difficult, if not impossible, to provide an intercontinental service with only one aircraft and, most importantly, without being in partnership with one or more of the strong carriers.” According to him, discussions with prospective partners on the regional and inter-continental routes are ongoing and he expects positive results. Earlier it was announced that SA Airlink planned to take a 40% stake in the carrier, with Namibia’s largest private airline, Comav, having also expressed interest. The government will hold a 25% share. (Adéle Mackenzie)