Plane scary!

Mechanics frantically try to jack the burst tyres of a SA Express plane at OR Tambo Airport destined for Richards Bay on Friday morning

the burst tyres of a SA Express plane

Passenger observation averts possible disaster

A casual glance out of the window before take-off from OR Tambo Airport, a Richards Bay man noticed one of the plane’s tyres was deflated. But despite Neville Loosemore’s attempts to notify the air hostess, the SA Express flight SA 1603 took off on Friday, destined for Richards Bay. After his continuous insistence that the plane would not be able to land on Richards Bay’s short runway with a burst tyre, the air hostess informed the captain and technical staff of the problem. ‘The plane then turned back to Johannesburg for landing,’ said Loosemore. But more drama was to unfold as a second tyre burst upon landing in Johannesburg. ‘We were parked on the runway and mechanics spent hours trying to jack the tyres. Passengers were left in the plane, watching the chaos. According to sources, a similar incident had occurred the day before when a SA Express flight turned back due to a faulty propeller. After approximately three hours, the plane took off again, heading for Richards Bay Airport. ‘I flew in from London and paid a huge amount to fly to Richards Bay. ‘There were passengers from India who missed business meetings, as well as several families from the US who were travelling to Zululand on holiday. ‘These incidents present a very negative image for tourists wanting to fly to Richards Bay,’ said Loosemore. This incident is the latest in a string of complaints by irate SA Express passengers - though almost all of the complaints originate at Johannesburg airports. ‘Of the last six SA Express flights between Johannesburg and Richards Bay, I have been delayed four times. ‘This is the only airline to Richards Bay and it is very costly. ‘While the safety record might remain good, it shows poor reliability.’ ‘I will now fly to Durban and drive to Richards Bay,’ said Loosemore. ‘While SA Express constantly strives for on time departures, the safety of our passengers cannot be compromised,’ said SA Express: PR and Communication Manager, Dileseng Koetle. ‘SA Express flight SA 1603 between Johannesburg and Richards Bay returned to ramp due to a burst tyre. ‘SA Express apologises for any inconvenience caused.’