The issue was first raised a few years ago after it emerged that SAA was losing billions of rands and a merger was suggested to make the three airlines financially sustainable.Mthembu said this week the issue of a merger of the airlines was before the cabinet.
“Cabinet is looking at various options. The cabinet did reflect on suggestions, but at the moment it’s work in progress.The finances of SAA have not yet been tabled before Parliament.The airline owes creditors billions of rands. It is one of the state-owned entities that has been struggling financially with National Treasury forced to come to their rescue.
It is not the first time that SAA has delayed releasing its financial statement having done so in 2014/15 when it had needed cash from the government.Other than SAA, SA Express has also been in financial trouble and required bailouts.