By Tamlyn Canham
Failing to wear a mask during a FlySafair flight could cost you R100,000.
A disgruntled passenger put the airline on blast after noticing its strict mask policy.
The policy states that a mask must cover both the passenger’s nose and mouth throughout the flight.
It added that those who fail to comply will risk being arrested by the SAPS upon landing. They could also be added on a “no-fly” list.
“Our Caption may choose to divert this flight, in the interest of health and safety, and as per our Terms and Conditions, all inherent costs (estimated at R100k) will be for your account,” the policy states.
The passenger who shared a picture of the policy accused the airline of threatening its customers.
“Dear @FlySafair – threatening paying customers in this manner is terrible optics for many reasons.
“I expected this from tone-deaf and inefficient state-owned airlines, not one that prides itself on customer service and professionalism. Please fix this,” Twitter user, @Paratus2014, wrote.
Dear @FlySafair – threatening paying customers in this manner is terrible optics for many reasons. I expected this from tone-deaf and inefficient state-owned airlines, not one that prides itself on customer service and professionalism. Please fix this. pic.twitter.com/PBgjLHTI2f
— Guerrilla Media 🏴 (@Paratus2014) February 14, 2021
FlySafair apology
FlySafair’s website also lists wearing a mask as compulsory for every flight.
The airline apologised to the customer, but stressed that COVID-19 regulations needed to be followed.
“Hi, Would like to firstly apologize in the manner in which we made you feel. Our aim is not to make our passengers feel uncomfortable in any way but stress the importance of following the covid regulations for safety.”
Hi, Would like to firstly apologize in the manner in which we made you feel. Our aim is not to make our passengers feel uncomfortable in any way but stress the importance of following the covid regulations for safety.
— FlySafair (@FlySafair) February 14, 2021
Wearing a mask in any public area is compulsory
Many Twitter users felt that the airline did not have to apologise to the passenger, as officials are legally required to make sure customers abide by the rules.
“Safair, don’t waste data apologising to this person. One less risky customer on your plane will make it safer for all of us! Stick to the hardline on this. The wellbeing of society must trump the manufactured outrage of one customer,” one man tweeted.
Safair, don’t waste data apologising to this person. One less risky customer on your plane will make it safer for all of us! Stick to the hardline on this. The wellbeing of society must trump the manufactured outrage of one customer.
— Suntosh Pillay (@suntoshpillay) February 14, 2021
Another user added: “Not sure why @FlySafair is apologising. ??This message is threatening if one plans on not being compliant, being a total nuisance & a health hazard.”
Not sure why @FlySafair is apologising. ?This message is threatening if one plans on not being compliant, being a total nuisance & a health hazard.
— Sbu Mpungose (@SbuMpungose) February 15, 2021