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The Competition Tribunal held a proceeding yesterday regarding allegations of excessive and predatory pricing by SA Airlink. The Competition Commission investigated and referred complaints about the airline’s pricing on the Johannesburg-Mthatha route between 2012 and 2016 to the Tribunal for prosecution. All the new information is here: hollywoodbets mobile app

According to the Commission, SA Airlink engaged in predatory pricing by setting prices below its average variable costs in response to the entry of a new competitor, Fly Blue Crane, on the route. This predatory behavior allegedly contributed to Fly Blue Crane exiting the market.

SA Airlink denies the Commission’s allegations and is opposing the complaint being heard by the Tribunal. The proceedings began last week.

Dr. Andile Nontso, the secretary of the regional office of the OR Tambo District Chamber of Business, testified at the Tribunal, stating that they believe SA Airlink exploited air travelers on the JHB-Mthatha route before facing competition from Fly Blue Crane.

Prior to facing competition, SA Airlink charged over R4,000, and sometimes as much as R7,000, for a return ticket on the route. After Fly Blue Crane entered the market, SA Airlink’s ticket prices dropped to less than R2,000 return. However, once Fly Blue Crane suspended its flights in January 2017, SA Airlink significantly increased its ticket prices again.

Dr. Nontso expressed concerns that SA Airlink’s conduct harmed travelers and potential tourists to the Mthatha region. He also believed that it may have deterred potential investors from the area.

He noted that many travelers opted to fly to East London instead due to considerably lower airfares. They would then book accommodations in East London and drive to Mthatha the following day for business.

SA Airlink’s CFO, De Villiers Engelbrecht, argued that operating the Mthatha airport was significantly more expensive compared to other airports due to various infrastructure problems. These issues included a lack of weather-monitoring facilities, lack of fuel storage facilities, electricity supply problems, and ongoing threats of the airport’s license revocation due to inadequate fire and emergency services.

Engelbrecht also explained that recent management failures resulted in temporary airport closures in 2019 and December 2022.

He presented evidence of SA Airlink introducing special low fares on the JHB-Mthatha route to commemorate the introduction of additional flights.

Engelbrecht stated that the airline industry in South Africa has not yet reached pre-Covid passenger levels. After the pandemic, SA Airlink resumed limited flights on domestic routes between Johannesburg, eThekwini, and Cape Town. The airline had to regain the trust and confidence of passengers on all its 53 routes post-pandemic, as it was forced to close for three weeks during the lockdown.

Radisson Hotel Group has announced its expansion in Morocco with the opening of Radisson Blu Residences, Saidia. The new hotel is the eighth in the country for the group and is located in one of the most popular seaside destinations in northern Morocco. With this new addition, the group now has three hotels in Saidia.

The Radisson Blu Residences, Saidia boasts 13 contemporary units that consist of suites, studios, and apartments. These accommodations offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the region’s famous landscapes. Each unit is fully equipped with modern appliances and amenities, as well as spacious living areas and kitchens, ensuring a comfortable stay for both solo travelers and families.
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Guests at the hotel can enjoy two large pools to cool off from the sun, take leisurely walks along the pristine beach known as the “Blue Pearl” for its crystal blue waters, or explore the beautiful Mediterranean flora. Additionally, they have access to the hotel’s spa and traditional Moroccan hammam, providing an authentic Moroccan experience.

According to Cordon, the Radisson Blu Residences Saidia is a perfect complement to the group’s two existing Radisson Blu resorts in Saidia. It offers ideal accommodation for long-stay guests and families looking for additional space and facilities.

The digital nomad lifestyle, where individuals work remotely and embrace a location-independent way of life, is becoming increasingly popular. Malta, a Mediterranean island country, is at the forefront of this movement. Boasting stunning landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, and a digital nomad visa option for South Africans, Malta has become a sought-after destination for those seeking a unique and flexible lifestyle.

To further attract digital nomads, AC Hotels by Marriott has recently opened its first property on the island – the AC Hotel by Marriott St. Julian’s. Strategically situated in the coastal town of St. Julian’s, the hotel provides convenient access to beaches, restaurants, and the historic capital city of Valletta.

The AC Hotel by Marriott St. Julian’s offers 106 contemporary guest rooms and suites, carefully designed to meet the needs of telecommuters. Each room is equipped with plush bedding for a comfortable night’s sleep, Nespresso machines to satisfy the need for caffeine, and an ergonomic workspace for uninterrupted productivity.

During leisurely moments between remote meetings, digital nomads can unwind at the AC Lounge on the rooftop terrace, taking in the breathtaking views of St. Julian’s skyline while enjoying cocktails. The rooftop area also features a heated pool, providing a perfect oasis for relaxation after a productive day.

The hotel strives to maintain a balance between work and lifestyle amenities. It offers an indoor pool and a well-equipped gym with state-of-the-art Matrix equipment, catering to the overall wellbeing of digital nomads. Whether one desires a rejuvenating swim or an invigorating workout, the hotel ensures a fulfilling experience.

South Africans with a digital nomad visa can reside and work in Malta for up to a year, allowing ample time to explore and appreciate the picturesque beauty of the island.

A South African chef named Chang Sheng Ye, also known as Peter, has found success in Vietnam after pursuing his passion for food. Ye, who grew up in Gqeberha, became interested in cooking while watching television shows like Hell’s Kitchen. He initially trained in hospitality but later decided to study culinary arts part-time, realizing that it was his true calling. After obtaining a Diploma in Food Preparation and Cooking from Capsicum Culinary Studio, Ye worked at various establishments in Johannesburg, including Emperors Palace, the InterContinental OR Tambo, and Hilton Sandton Hotel. He also competed in culinary competitions, achieving recognition as one of the top five chefs in Africa, the Middle East, and the Indian Ocean.

In 2016, Ye seized the opportunity to work abroad and became the executive chef for the five-star Mia Resort Nha Trang in Vietnam. He further climbed the ladder of success in the culinary and hospitality industries and this year opened The Anam Mui Ne, a luxury resort that is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World group. Ye aspires to open his own small and trendy restaurant, offering a fusion of East and West cuisine. His food idols include Marco Pierre White, Gordon Ramsay, and other top chefs, and he dreams of cooking for Ariana Grande, Elon Musk, Gordon Ramsay, the Dalai Lama, and Lee Ji-eun, a South Korean singer-songwriter.

Ye advises aspiring chefs to put in the necessary effort and take advantage of opportunities, but warns that the industry demands long hours and sacrifices personal time. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork and going above and beyond to excel in different sections. Despite the challenges, Ye remains passionate about his career and believes that hard work will bring success. If he had to choose a last meal, Ye would opt for lobster ravioli with shaved white truffle, and he would prepare a spit roast for his dream guests, as it allows for more time to engage in conversation and creates a relaxed atmosphere.