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The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes reports that minister of transport Sibusiso Ndebele is looking at grounding the SA Airlink fleet, before a full investigation can take place into the recent spate of serious mechanical errors and accidents involving the airliner.

Five incidences in the last six months, including yesterday's incident at the George Airport, calls into question the competence of SA Airlink in ensuring the safety of passengers utilising their services. Nationwide Airlines was grounded without delay two years ago following an incident in which a Boeing 737-200 ADV lost its engine on the runway after take off. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) needs to hold all airliners, including SA Airlink, to the very highest of standards, and suspend the airworthiness certificates of any aircraft where there is a reasonable suspicion of problems.

It is imperative that the necessary action is taken swiftly, to secure the safety of all of our air travelers, and also to guarantee the safety of visiting tourists and businessmen - a concern that is, of course, particularly valid with the 2010 World Cup fast approaching.