South African Airways (SAA) and Mango, its low-cost subsidiary have announced plans to rationalize their route network for improved efficiency and optimal aircraft utilization.

The rationalization which will be done through a revised airline brand schedule, will see additional Mango operated flights for the domestic market.

The rationalization programme follows an earlier announcement in September, where the airline announced network changes as part of the progressive implementation of its turnaround plan.

These initiatives form part of the Five-year turnaround plan to return the business to commercial sustainability in the shortest time possible.

Both SAA and Mango currently offer 200 return flights per week between Johannesburg and Durban and 278 return flights per week between Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Mango flights will operate on Boeing 737-800s while South African Airways will discontinue operating Airbus A340-600s on the Johannesburg- Cape Town route.

To enhance efficiency and to provide more diverse offering to customers, the two airline brands will ensure seamless implementation of the revised schedule with effect from 15 January 2018.

Once fully implemented, Mango will operate 132 return flights on the Johannesburg-Durban route and 116 return flights on the Johannesburg-Cape Town route per week. SAA will operate 68 return flights between Johannesburg and Durban, and 162 return flights between Johannesburg and Cape Town.

The SAA group will continue to offer customers the option to travel on the product of their choice, making it much more convenient for them to choose their preferred service and schedule.