JOHANNESBURG – South African Airways (SAA) recorded a R1.5-billion net loss due to fewer passengers and higher fuel costs, among other reasons.

The national carrier on Tuesday briefed Parliament on its first-quarter report.

The airline’s appearance comes a week after Chief Financial Officer Phumeza Nhantsi was suspended.

READ: Critics slam SAA for signing R35-million security contract

SAA CEO, Vuyani Jarana, said the airline is battling with its management’s inability to implement strategy.

He told MPs the airline has lost market share to Gulf carriers like Emirates, Turkish Airlines and Qatar.

SAA board chairperson, JB Magwaza, said the airline must be restructured but warns the process will be painful and turbulent.

eNCA