Delays on flights between Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town

A business dispute delayed Velvet Sky flights on Thursday, the low-cost airline said. “No flights were cancelled, despite reports to the contrary,” it said in a statement.  

The broad-based black economic empowerment company is based in Durban and flies between that city, Johannesburg and Cape Town.

“The delays were mainly as a result of commercial issues that have arisen between Velvet Sky Aviation and a service provider,” it said.

“For this we apologise to our passengers, who despite Velvet Sky Aviation being less than one year old, have demonstrated loyalty and support to our company.” 

Velvet Sky said the delays, which started on Wednesday, were caused by circumstances beyond its control.   “Velvet Sky management however continues to work very hard in ensuring that there is minimal disruption in our operation.” 

Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) confirmed the delays.

Acsa spokesman Solomon Makgale said Wednesday’s delays were primarily out of Cape Town.

The delays on Thursday were from Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town.  

“As at 10am this morning, none of Velvet Sky’s flights had departed in accordance with the schedule.

“Passengers can expect delays for most of today. Velvet Sky is yet to provide ACSA with an updated schedule,” Makgale said.