South African low-fare carrier Mango has come a long way since it first introduced operations in the country in October 2006. The wholly-owned subsidiary of South African Airways (SAA) has been profitable in all but one-fiscal year and operates as part of a dual-strategy with its parent, allowing it to combat falling yields and position the national carrier against growing local competition.
“If you can call a computer company Apple or a cell-phone mobile operator Orange, then I can call an airline Mango.”
Nico Bezuidenhout, Chief Executive Officer, Mango
It is a great story that was told in an on stage interview between our Head of Content & Industry Relations, Michael Miller and Nico Bezuidenhout, Chief Executive Officer, Mango and up until very recently also acting Chief Executive Officer, South African Airways.
The respected airline executive discussed, the company’s origins, how its innovative name and brand was selected from 1000 options, its business model, ticket distribution, competition from the bus industry, the issue of cannibalisation of markets, licencing issues, airport operating times, the importance of on-time performance, life at South African Airways and future aspirations.
Watch the full session from the World Routes Strategy Summit, below:
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