FlySafair says its flight operations and customer bookings will continue uninterrupted despite being referred to the National Consumer Tribunal over its overbooking practices.
The low-cost airline has come under scrutiny following findings that it may have breached sections of South Africa’s Consumer Protection Act through the practice of overbooking flights.
However, FlySafair insists that its booking model complies with the law and aligns with standard practices used across the international aviation sector.
FlySafair Defends Overbooking Policy Under Consumer Protection Act
According to the airline, Section 47 of the Consumer Protection Act allows overbooking under certain conditions, provided passengers are treated fairly when disruptions occur.
The company said more than 99.98% of customers travelled successfully during the review period. The airline added that only a limited number of passengers were denied boarding and that affected travellers were offered refunds, alternative bookings or compensation.
The carrier also referenced previous guidance issued by the consumer goods and services ombudsman, which acknowledged overbooking as a recognised industry practice when handled responsibly and transparently.
National Consumer Tribunal To Rule On The Company’s Practices
FlySafair’s chief marketing officer, Kirby Gordon, said the airline’s services would continue without disruption while the matter proceeds.
“FlySafair will continue to operate all scheduled flights as normal and customer bookings remain unaffected.”
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The matter will now be considered by the National Consumer Tribunal, which will determine whether the airline’s overbooking practices violated consumer protection legislation.
