Nationwide makes its UK debut

NATIONWIDE Airlines has become only the second South African carrier to fly into the British capital of London. The inaugural flight took-off from Johannesburg International last Friday carrying its first batch of passengers as well as a media contingent. The airline currently flies three times a week to Gatwick, utilising a leased 767-300 ER aircraft. At an official welcome at Gatwick on Monday night, South African Tourism’s gm for the UK, Nolwazi Mdluli, representatives of the British Airports Authority and members of the media and travel trade in Britain boarded and inspected the plane. Nationwide’s UK manager, George Crossland commented: “We are delighted to be launching this new route from Gatwick. We expect the service to be popular and the early signs are certainly encouraging, with the first flights expected to be around 70% full. South Africa continues to be one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, and this service will only contribute in bringing more UK visitors to the country.” Based in the North Terminal, Nationwide is primarily targeting the leisure and VFR markets. The airline’s commercial executive, Chris Hoare, has hinted at flying daily between JIA and Gatwick. (Miguel de Sousa)