1time founders to launch Skywise airlines in 2013
2012-11-16 08:47
In the wake of 1time's demise, its founders have revealed that they are planning to launch a brand new low-cost carrier in South Africa next year.
Going by the name of Skywise, the airline is expected to silence critics in the aviation industry who say there isn't a need for a new carrier in the domestic market. At least, this is the hope expressed by founders Rodney James and Glenn Orsmond (ex-1time CEOS), Michael Kaminski (ex-1time CIO) and Johan Borstlap (ex-Sun Air MD), Tourism Update reports.
According to James plans to start a new low-cost airline started around six months ago and, since then, the highly experienced team had developed an "exciting business plan". While the founders are still in the process of applying for an air service licence, the plan is to launch SkyWise in the first quarter of next year.
Using two Boeing 737-300s, the airline will offer flights between OR Tambo International Airport and Cape Town International Airport, with plans to expand the network as market shares grow.
While many in the industry have stated that the high fuel costs and airport taxes provide an unfavourable environment for airlines, particularly new entrants into the market, James says the same was said before 1time launched nine years ago, and after launching it was able to grow the market.
According to James, SkyWise will lease purchase the two aircraft, however he did not reveal where they will be sourced from.
Unlike 1time, which was self-funded, SkyWise has external investors. James explains that the airline will start off with a BEE component as well as investment from a Dubai-based aviation company looking to expand into Africa.
