While fastjet still faces some challenges, SkyWise looks set to launch by its target date, March 1, despite objection by those who questioned the intentions of its founders, ex-1time bosses, Rodney James, Glenn Orsmond and Michael Kaminski.
DoT deputy director: licensing and permits, Andries Ntjane, confirms that SkyWise has submitted 100% of the documentation required to obtain its air service licence and the application “looks good”.
According to Ntajane, the Air Services Licensing Council (ASLC) will meet again on January 16, where a final decision on SkyWise’s application will be made.
James says it is unfortunate that SkyWise didn’t get its licence before Christmas but acknowledges that it was a tall order to expect it to be issued during the holiday season.
In response to the objections by critics, including ex-1time employees, Ntjane says the ASLC is managed in terms of the Air Services Licensing Act and not the Companies Act (which looks at the previous business endeavours of those running a company). As such, he says the Council only takes into consideration whether or not an applicant has the necessary documentation to prove that it can operate safely and reliably and that, from a financial point of view, it is liquid and able to lodge the consumer protection guarantee required. SkyWise, he says, has done so.
