South Africa mulls merger of two state owned airlines

South Africa’s government has proposed merging two of its state owned airlines.

The proposed merger of South African Airways (SAA) with SA Express and partnering the new entity with a minority equity partner is seen as a move to return SAA to profitability.

SAA and SA Express merger! Zupta cronies must be removed from the board! #DuduMustFall #BreakfastWithPravin pic.twitter.com/sysQ3sFpkT

— Beware the DOG (@BewareDOG1) February 25, 2016

In his budget speech, South Africa’s finance Minister Pravin Gordhan said government does not need to be invested in four airline businesses.

According to South Africa’s treasury, the financial position of SAA has deteriorated.

Treasury says in the event of a default, the government would likely be called to pay a portion of its guarantee to the airline, which stands at about $939.3 million.