Johannesburg, 21 January 2009
South African Airways (SAA) can confirm that the 15 crew members who were detained by British authorities yesterday have now all been released without being charged.
The crew members, including three pilots and 12 cabin crew members, were detained by British customs officials on their arrival at Heathrow Airport yesterday morning. This took place after three items of luggage containing contraband were found on the aircraft. SAA has ensured that the crew members have legal representation, and airline officials in the UK have assisted the crew where possible
SAA is co-operating fully with UK authorities. The airline has also launched an investigation into this matter involving SAA Aviation Security and the SAPS Crime Intelligence Unit. SAA has a zero tolerance approach towards the use of the airline’s services for any criminal activity.
Issued by: Robyn Chalmers
SAA Head: Group Corporate Affairs