Conditions of Carriage

2.1 Introduction

2.1.1

Airlink is a privately-owned, BBBEE Level 4 business and regional airline serving a comprehensive network of smaller destinations throughout Southern Africa. We operate independently under our own unique 4Z flight code.

2.1.2 

The Airline industry operates in a global environment with specific business processes and procedures which have been developed over the years to enable the industry to operate in a fair and efficient manner while having regards for the various factors and risks unique to the industry. Much of the business processes are captured in regulations, conventions and treaties that govern the industry.

2.1.3 

Airlink, as a member of IATA, adheres to all of the international regulations, Conventions and treaties that govern the industry and where applicable to our Passengers, it is captured in this Conditions of Carriage. Airlink reserves the right to change or update its policies, procedures and conditions of carriage without prior notification.

2.2 General

2.2.1

This Conditions of Carriage forms part of the Passenger’s contract of carriage with Airlink and applies to the carriage we provide to the Passenger unless Clause 2.4 (Overriding Law) provides otherwise.

2.2.2

The liability of the Airline in regards to any claim that the Passenger may have against Airlink in regards to Loss or Damage to Baggage is limited to the higher of -

• a) the sector fare paid by the Passenger for the Ticket; or
• b) the applicable Convention in terms of any claims related to the loss or damage to Baggage, provided that the Passenger complies in all material respects with the procedures in submitting the claims as provided for in the applicable Convention.

2.2.3

These Conditions of Carriage applies to gratuitous and reduced fare carriage as well, in all material respects.

2.2.4 

These Conditions of Carriage apply to all of our business activities, including but not limited to Airlink Charter Agreement Operations and Services incidental thereto.

2.2.5

Airlink will acknowledge written travel related concerns or compliments within 30 days of their receipt and our customer care department will send a substantive written response within 60 days of receiving a written complaint.  

Complaints and compliments sent via e-mail to: [email protected] 

Please note that we are only able to provide feedback to the passenger concerned or their authorized representative in order to ensure data privacy compliance.


2.3 Interline Travel / Codeshare Partners

2.3.1

Interline Baggage Acceptance:

• a) Solely applies to Interline itineraries on a Single Ticket.
• b) When Airlink (4Z) is the issuing carrier, it will select and apply its own Checked Baggage policy Clause 10 (Baggage) throughout the Passenger’s Interline Itinerary.
• c) When a Passenger makes a voluntary itinerary change, the Checked Baggage policy of the new Selected Carrier applies.
• d) The Selected Carrier’s Checked Baggage excess baggage charges apply at any point where bags are checked in, including stopovers.
• e) Each Operating Carrier’s Carry-on baggage allowances and policies will apply to each flight segment in an Interline Itinerary.
• f) Where Airlink (4Z) is a Participating Carrier or is not the Selected Carrier on an Interline itinerary but is an Interlining Carrier that is providing transportation to the passenger based on ticket issued, Airlink (4Z) will apply the Selected Carrier’s baggage rules throughout the Interline Itinerary.

2.3.2 

The Conditions of Carriage of the operating carrier shall apply in all other respects, with the result that, for example, provisions relating to baggage acceptance, check-in and boarding, refusal and limitation of carriage, conduct aboard aircraft, and schedules, delays and cancellation of flights may differ from these Conditions of Carriage and the Airline requests that the Passenger familiarise themselves with the Conditions of Carriage of the operating carrier, where applicable.

2.3.3

Limitation of Liability

Passengers on a journey involving an ultimate destination or a stop in a country other than the country of origin are advised that the provisions of a treaty known as the Warsaw Convention may be applicable to the entire journey, including any portion entirely within the country of origin or destination. For such passengers on a journey to, from, or with an agreed stopping place in the United States of America, the Convention and special contracts of carriage embodied in applicable tariffs provide that the liability of [certain ]* [(name of carrier) and certain other] carriers parties to such special contracts for death of or personal injury to passengers is limited in most cases to proven damages not to exceed US $75,000 per passenger, and that this liability up to such limit shall not depend on negligence on the part of the carrier. For such passengers traveling by a carrier not a party to such special contracts or on a journey not to, from, or having an agreed stopping place in the United States of America, liability of the carrier for death or personal injury to passengers is limited in most cases to approximately US $10,000 or US $20,000. 

2.3.3.1

The names of Carriers parties to such special contracts are available at all ticket offices of such carriers and may be examined on request. 

2.3.3.2

Additional protection can usually be obtained by purchasing insurance from a private company. Such insurance is not affected by any limitation of the carrier’s liability under the Warsaw Convention or such special contracts of carriage. For further information please consult your airline or insurance company representative.” 

2.3.3.3

[This Agreement was filed with the Civil Aeronautics Board of the United States. The Board approved it by Order E-23680, adopted May 13, 1966. The Agreement (Agreement 18900) became effective May 16, 1966. On January 1, 1985, this Agreement became the responsibility of the Department of Transportation (DOT) by operation of law.] 

2.3.3.4

This Agreement may be signed in any number of counterparts, all of which shall constitute one Agreement. Any Carrier may become a party to this Agreement by signing a counterpart hereof and depositing it with DOT. 

2.3.3.5

Any Carrier party hereto may withdraw from this Agreement by giving twelve (12) months’ written notice of withdrawal to DOT and the other Carriers parties to the Agreement.

2.4 Overriding Law

These Conditions of Carriage are applicable unless they are inconsistent with applicable Law in which event such Law shall prevail.

2.5 Air travel during a Pandemic

2.5.1 

As the world faces an unprecedented health pandemic, air travel comes with new travel procedures in order to protect the health and wellbeing of all Airlink passengers and staff members and avoid the contracting and spreading of communicable diseases.

2.5.2

Airlink follows procedures, advice and guidelines from the centres for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organisation (WHO), International Air Transport Association (IATA), South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) and the relevant Airport and Customs authorities.

2.5.3 

Procedure for travelling during a pandemic:

• a) Passengers will be required to bring their own face mask that covers the nose and mouth. The only exceptions are children under five (5) years of age and passengers with dementia, autism, difficulty breathing and medical reasons. We only accept an exception from exclusion from wearing a mask on presentation of a printed valid negative PCR test result and a medical certificate. 
• b) The face mask should be of a design that will allow the user to wear the mask for the duration of the flight and airport facilitation activities including check-in, boarding, bussing and baggage claim facilities.
• c) Failing to wear a face mask will result in the passenger being offloaded without compensation.
• d) Abide by social distancing rules of 1,5m.
• e) Do not greet by any form of physical contact.
• f) Passengers are required to undergo contactless digital thermal temperature screening procedures at the airport as part of the facilitation process excluding domestic travel.
• g) Anyone with a temperature over 37.5°C will not be permitted to board.
• h) Please do not attempt to travel by air if you feel unwell or show known symptoms of a communicable disease.
• i) Cough and sneeze into your elbow if you do not have a tissue or handkerchief available.
• j) Wash your hands regularly and disinfect with alcohol-based hand sanitiser (max 70%). A maximum of 100ml is permitted in carry-on baggage on Airlink Domestic and Regional flights.
• k) All passengers will be subject to a health related questionnaire at check-in or at the boarding gate, where necessary additional screening may be applicable excluding domestic travel.

2.5.4

In the event passengers start to feel ill during flight or arrive at their destination and show symptoms of a communicable disease, to the point where they could be placed in quarantine, Airlink shall not be liable for any costs incurred related to such incidents and no further claims can be submitted. Any medical costs, new tickets, repatriation, accommodation costs etc. shall be for the passenger’s expense and Airlink accepts no liability thereof.

2.5.5

South Africa will allow travel from countries with a low rate of Covid-19 infection and transmission for business, leisure and other travel on condition that:  

• a) Passengers entering or transiting through South Africa are required to produce a printed and valid medical certificate in English with a negative Covid-19 PCR test result not older than 72 hours before departure from from the first embarkation point. Passengers in transit are subject to a check by immigration. The 72 hours starts from the date the certificate is issued. Every time a traveller departs for South Africa a new test is required prior to departure. Children under five years do not require a test. The onus is on the passenger to check the specific testing requirements for their destination, including stops for any flights and are required to come to the airport with the appropriate printed travel documents.  
• b) Travel may be restricted to and from certain countries that have high Covid-19 infection rates. A list of countries will be published by the South African government and amended from time to time on the latest scientific data which Airlink will not be held accountable or liable for costs due to changes in travel bans placed on high-risk countries.  

2.5.6

Passengers are required to have their valid, negative PCR certificate printed before departure. It is the responsibility of passengers to familiarise themselves with the applicable regulations and PCR requirements in accordance with the destination’s regulations prior to making a reservation and presenting themselves for a flight at check-in and at the boarding gate. Airlink shall not be responsible for any costs or reimbursement of costs where a passenger is denied boarding for reasons of his/her own negligence or disregard of the applicable regulations. 

2.5.7

Passengers with tickets commencing travel prior to 31 December 2021 will be permitted one free date change. The free date change must fall within the ticket validity which has been extended to two years from the original date of issue. This is applicable to both regional and domestic tickets. Refer to the Covid 19 Memo related to ticket changes https://www.flyairlink.com/important-info/covid-memo 

3.1 General

3.1.1

Airlink shall only provide carriage to the Passenger named on the Ticket, provided that each Passenger produces a valid Government issued Passport or South African Identity Document (applicable only for flights operating within the borders of South Africa), as well as the credit card or debit card with which an online reservation was made, if applicable.

Children must have a Birth Certificate or a certified copy of one (valid for 3 months). This does not need to be an Unabridged Birth Certificate.

At check-in, it is required that all Passengers provide proof of identification in order to receive their boarding pass. The same documentation must be present at the boarding gate.

3.1.2

In line with the gazetted amendment issued by the Minister of Transport, Airlink will accept expired SA Driver’s licences as a valid form of identification as required by Part 112, until 31 March 2022.

3.1.3

Certified copies of the South African Identity Document and Driver’s licences may be accepted for Domestic travel. A certified copy is only valid for three (3) months from date of issue. 

3.1.4

Digital copies of any form of identification will not be accepted, as per SACAA regulations. 

3.1.5

In the case of an Electronic Ticket, the Passenger is required to bring the E-Ticket Itinerary Receipt to the airport as it shall be necessary for the Passenger to present it to Airlink, Airport Immigration and Security Personnel.

3.1.6

Airlink will not accept responsibility for any claim or loss due to schedule changes, mishandling of baggage or misconnecting flight(s) in circumstances where the Passenger has booked his/her travel itinerary on separate ticket(s) issued on different carriers as opposed to a single ticket itinerary.

3.1.7

For the purposes of the Warsaw Convention and the Montreal Convention, an E-Ticket Itinerary Receipt is deemed to serve as a Ticket.

3.1.8

Some Tickets are sold at special fares which may be partially or completely non-refundable. It is the Passenger’s responsibility to choose the fare, and applicable fare rules, best suited to their travelling needs and ensure that they familiarise themselves with the fare rules and the terms and conditions of the Ticket.

3.1.9

Air Travel involves many risks and Airlink’s liability is limited therefore it remains the Passenger’s responsibility to ensure they have appropriate and adequate travel insurance. This will cover instances where the Passenger is unable to make use of such a Ticket for whatever reason, including non-performance by Airlink which can cover things such as:

• Changes in Travel Plans and Flight Cancellations
• Medical and Hospital Expenses
• Repatriation Costs
• Personal Injury and Death
• Delayed, Damaged or Lost Baggage
• Force Majeure events
• Adverse Weather Conditions
• Local and/or Global Epidemic/Pandemic outbreaks

3.1.10

South African Immigration Regulations requires for anyone travelling with children under 18 years, whether parents of the child, relatives, family friends or school teachers travelling to/from South Africa to travel with certain documents.

Before travelling, consult the South African embassy in your home country or the South African Department of Home Affairs in order to ensure that you meet all relevant criteria.

• Department of Home Affairs website: http://www.dha.gov.za/
• Department of Home Affairs contact centre: 0800 60 11 90

3.1.11

Airlink is bound by the South African Immigration Regulations and must act accordingly. Travellers not in possession of the required travel documentation shall not be allowed to travel. It is solely the passenger’s responsibility to ensure they are in possession of all travel documents required by the Airline, Immigration or Customs etc.

3.1.12

The airfare included in the electronic ticket may be a special fare and rebooking and cancellation restrictions may apply. If the fare conditions allow for a rebooking or refund, please be advised that charges may apply. Airfares have conditions attached that limit or excludes the passengers right to change or cancel the reservation. The passenger is responsible to familiarise themselves with the terms and conditions that apply to the airfare and Airlink accepts no responsibility for the passenger’s failure to do so. 

Having purchased an electronic ticket from Airlink means that you understood and agreed to our terms and conditions of carriage including restrictions on dangerous goods forbidden for air transportation and the fare purchase conditions. For enquiries regarding the fare conditions applying to your chosen airfare, please contact your local Airlink office.


3.2 Period of Validity

3.2.1

Airlink standard traffic documents issued on 749 will be valid for:

3.2.2 

New 24 month Ticket Validity

Many travel plans have been impacted by COVID-19 and Airlink wants to make sure passengers have sufficient time to make their travel arrangements. Tickets issued from 01 May 2020 are now valid for 24 months from the Original Ticket Issue date.

Passengers may reschedule their 749 ticket to a different date with the same city pair and the ticket needs to be reissued. The new ticket will be subject to new fare rules and any applicable additional collection.

3.2.3 

It is the Passenger’s responsibility to familiarise themselves with the fare rules and the terms and conditions of the Ticket.

3.3 Non-use of Ticket

3.3.1

In the event that after the Passenger has begun the carriage, and the Passenger is prevented from travelling within the period of validity by reason of illness, Airlink may extend the validity of the Ticket until the date the Passenger becomes fit to travel, provided that the date falls within the validity of the Ticket as described in Clause 3.2 (Period of Ticket Validity), subject to availability, and the itinerary for which the fare has been paid.

Such illness must be attested to by a medical certificate bearing a date not more than ten (10) Days prior to departure of the flight as indicated on the Ticket.

In such circumstances, Airlink will similarly extend the period of validity of Tickets of other members of the Passenger’s Immediate Family accompanying the Passenger or refund the Passenger in full at the Passenger’s election.

3.3.2

In the event of the death in the Immediate Family of a Passenger who has commenced travel, the validity of the Ticket and the Tickets of the immediate family who are accompanying the Passenger may likewise be extended or refunded at the Passenger’s request, provided that the date falls within the validity of the Ticket as described in Clause 3.2 (Period of Ticket Validity), subject to availability, and the itinerary for which the fare has been paid.

3.3.3

In the event that the Passenger fails to present themselves at the prescribed times at either the check-in counter for the check-in procedure or at the boarding gate for the boarding procedure, Airlink reserves the right to consider the Passenger as a "no-show" and the Passenger will forfeit the coupon for that applicable segment of travel without the right to a refund.

3.4 Sequence of Ticket Use

3.4.1

The Ticket is valid only for the transportation as indicated on the Ticket, from the place of departure to the destination. The fare the Passenger has paid is for the transportation and sequence of transportation as indicated on the Ticket. The Ticket will not be honoured by Airlink and will lose its validity if all the coupons are not used in the sequence for provided on the Ticket.

3.4.2

Should the Passenger wish to change any aspect of transportation as indicated on the Ticket, the Passenger is obliged to contact Airlink in advance of the date of travel. The fare for the Passenger’s new transportation will be calculated and the Passenger will be given the option of accepting the new price or maintaining the original transportation as Ticketed.

3.4.3

Should the Passenger change the transportation without Airlink’s agreement, Airlink will assess the correct price for the actual travel. The Passenger will be obliged to pay the difference between the price and penalties, if applicable, and the total price applicable for the revised transportation. Airlink will refund the Passenger the difference if the new price is lower than the original price.

3.4.4

Please be aware that while some types of changes will not result in a change of fare, others, such as changing the place of departure (for example if the Passenger does not fly the first segment) or reversing the direction of travel(where applicable), can result in a change in price.

3.4.5

Depending on the fare class, most fares are valid only on the dates and for the flights shown on the Ticket and may not be changed at all, or only upon payment of an additional fee. 

3.4.6

Each flight coupon contained in the Passenger's Ticket will be accepted for transportation in the class of service on the date and flight for which the Ticket has been reserved. 

3.5 Tax Invoice

3.5.1

A VAT invoice for domestic air tickets may be requested as follows:

a) For Web bookings on the Airlink website https://www.flyairlink.com/tax-invoice          
b) For Airlink direct sales bookings: [email protected]
c) For travel agent bookings or alternative website bookings, contact them directly 
 

4.1 Fares

4.1.1

The fare paid for the Ticket includes the carriage of the Passenger and their Baggage from the airport of departure to the airport at the destination via specified Stopovers at the times and on the dates specified in the Ticket, unless Airlink advises the Passenger otherwise for whatever reason.

4.1.2

Airfares are different for adult, children and infant Passengers.

• Adult fares apply to Passengers twelve (12) years and over.
• Children fares apply to Passengers two (2) to eleven (11) years of age.
• Infant fares apply to Passengers under two (2) years of age.

4.1.3

Infants that pay the infant fare will be seated on the adult’s lap. Infants that require their own seat (between six (6) and twenty three (23) months) must be in an approved car-type seat and will be charged the children fare.

4.1.4

Infants becoming two (2) years en-route must have a booked seat for the remaining portion of the journey and the child fare applies for this part of the journey.

4.1.5

Children who have reached their twelfth (12) birthday en-route at the time of departure shall pay the full applicable adult fare.

4.1.6

The fare charged shall be determined by the age of the child or infant at the date of departure.

4.1.7

A second infant (twins) must travel with an accompanying adult.

4.1.8

The fare does not include ground transport services between airports and town terminals.

4.2 Taxes, fees and charges

4.2.1

Before carriage, the Passenger will pay Airlink the total amount of all applicable taxes, fees and charges imposed on Airlink by a government or other authority, or by the operator of an airport, which Airlink is obliged to collect from the Passenger or to pay in respect of the Passengers carriage.

4.2.2

When the Passenger purchases the Ticket all taxes, fees and charges not included in the fare will be shown separately on the Ticket, but will be included in the total fare of the Ticket.

4.2.3

Taxes, fees and charges imposed on air travel are not within Airlink’s control and is prescribed and can be imposed or changed after the date the Ticket has been purchased. If a tax, fee or charge is imposed or increased after the Ticket has been purchased, the Passenger is obliged to pay to Airlink any such tax, fee or charge, or any such increase before carriage at Airlink’s request.


4.3 Currency

Fares, taxes, fees and charges are payable in the currency of the country in which the Ticket is issued. Foreign currency converted to the currency of payment will be at the applicable IATA Bankers Selling Rate quoted and applicable on the date payment is made.

5.1 Reservation Requirements

5.1.1

Certain fares have conditions attached that limit or exclude the Passenger’s right to change or cancel reservations. The Passenger is responsible to familiarise themselves with the terms and conditions that apply to the fare and Airlink accepts no responsibility for the Passenger’s failure to do so.

5.1.2

The Passenger is obliged to inform Airlink at the time of reservation if the Passenger has a medical condition which may require medical assistance or special assistance during embarkation, disembarkation or aboard an aircraft.

The reservation will be provisional and converted to a confirmed reservation once Airlink is satisfied that the Passenger has received any medical clearance required and all conditions attached to such clearance have, or will be, complied with by the Passenger. Airlink reserves the right to deny boarding to a Passenger in the interest of safety. In such instances Airlink will refund the denied Passenger in full.

5.1.3

The Reservation, Ticket and Boarding pass must exactly match the Identification (Passport or South African ID book/ID card) with the same identically spelt and order of first names and surname. A maximum of two middle names is permitted if applicable. If you are unsure how to enter the Passenger name when booking online at www.flyairlink.com, please contact any Airlink office before completing the booking.

5.1.4 

Tickets can be transferred to another Passenger and any error in the name or spelling of the name will mean that the ticket will have to be reissued and an administration fee will be charged for the same booking class. Children and infant discount applies.

5.1.5

The onus lies with the Passenger who is responsible for the accuracy of their personal data when booking online, over the phone or at a booking office such as:

• Names are correctly spelt,
• Contact telephone numbers and e-mail addresses are correct,
• Correct flight dates and times,
• Correct departure and arrival airport

Ensure you receive a printed or electronic confirmation with your travel itinerary and E-ticket receipt. Airlink accepts no further liability to the Passenger for any loss or expense.

5.1.6

Children under the age of five years including infants must always travel with an adult or guardian (aged 18 or above) in the same cabin at all times.

5.1.7

When travelling with children under the age of 16 as part of a group or large family etc., the airline requires that adults of 16 years of age and older accompany the children at all times in the same cabin, subject to the following conditions:

• a) For every five children (aged 5 to 11 years) travelling, one adult is required.
• b) For every ten children (aged 12 to 15 years) travelling, one adult is required.
• c) For a mix of age groups (both 5 to 11 years and 12 to 15 years) and the number of travelling children exceeds 5, then one adult is required for every five children.

5.2 Ticketing time limit

5.2.1

Once the reservation is made, the Passenger or someone on the Passengers behalf must pay for the Ticket before the specified ticketing time as advised by Airlink in the fare rules.

5.2.2

The Airline reserves the right to cancel the reservation if the Passenger has not paid the applicable fare for the Ticket according to the Ticket Time Limit as advised in the fare rules.

5.3 Personal information

5.3.1

The Passenger acknowledges that personal information (including sensitive personal information) has been provided to Airlink for the purposes of making a reservation, issuing a Ticket, a boarding pass and other ancillary services related to the Passenger’s carriage, including, for example, provision of wheelchair assistance, facilitating immigration and entry procedures, facilitating security checks, dealing with customs control and making information available to government agencies in connection with the Passenger’s carriage (for example, security, customs or immigration where Airlink is required by applicable Law to do so).

5.3.2

Sensitive personal information, for example information relating to the Passenger’s health or disabilities, religion, criminal record or otherwise may be processed by Airlink. The Passenger hereby authorises Airlink to disclose such sensitive personal information to third parties for the purposes described in Clause 5.3.1 above.

5.3.3

Airlink may require the name and contact details of a third party whom Airlink may contact in the event of an emergency. It is the Passenger’s responsibility to ensure that the third party consents to the disclosure of the information provided for that purpose.

5.3.4 

Airlink is obligated to comply with the Protection of Personal Information Act (PoPI) in South Africa with respect to the processing of all personal passenger information.

5.4 Seating

5.4.1

The Airline will use reasonable care within its remit to meet advance seating requests, but cannot guarantee that the Passenger will be able to sit in any particular seat.

5.4.2

The Airline reserves the right to change the seating arrangements for a similar seat at any time, even after the Passenger has boarded the aircraft, whether for operational, safety, security reasons or otherwise.

5.4.3

The emergency exit row seat as per SACAA regulations stipulate strict control as to whom may and may not occupy these seats and comes with great safety responsibility to passengers that occupies them including having the strength, mobility, and balance required to open the exit door on the crews command. Failure to meet the requirements below will result in the passenger being reassigned to an alternative seat at the airport or onboard.   

The following conditions must be met to be seated at an emergency exit row seat:

a) must be 16 years of age or older, able bodied, willing and able to assist in the case of an emergency
b) must be able to understand instructions in English
c) must be free from any physical or mental condition
d) must not be pregnant, travelling with an infant, disabled, visually impaired, elderly or require an extension seatbelt


5.5 Aircraft

5.5.1

The Airline will use its best endeavours to provide the aircraft specified in the published timetable for carriage, but cannot guarantee that the particular aircraft will be used. The Airline reserves the right to change the aircraft on which the Passenger will be carried, whether for operational, safety, security reasons or otherwise.

5.5.2

Occasionally, it may be required for whatever reason to temporarily supplement the Airline’s fleet with aircraft operated for the Airline by another Airline. In the event that this applies to any aircraft on which the Passenger is due to be carried by the Airline, the Airline will endeavour to inform the Passenger of the identity of the operator of the aircraft after which the Passenger will be obliged to familiarise themselves with the Conditions of Carriage of the aircraft operator.

5.6 Reconfirmation of flights

Please reconfirm all flight information as indicated on the Ticket two (2) Business Days prior to departure.

5.7 Cancellation of flights

5.7.1

Passengers who fail to present themselves for a flight without advising the Airline in advance, no later than one (1) hour prior to the scheduled departure time will be a "no-show" and the Ticket flight coupon will be forfeited. 

The same will apply if the Passenger does not present themselves for a flight, be it at the check-in counter for the check-in procedure or the boarding gate for the boarding procedure prior to departure. It is the Passenger’s responsibility to familiarise themselves with the terms and conditions of the fare and the Airline does not accept any responsibility for the Passenger’s failure to do so.

5.7.2

The Airline will not be liable to the Passenger for any loss or expense whatsoever resulting from the Passenger’s failure to fully comply with the requirements in terms of Clause 5.7.1 above.

6.1 Fitness to Fly

Before boarding the aircraft for carriage the Passenger must be reasonably satisfied that they are medically fit to fly. If the Passenger has been advised that they are fit to fly provided certain precautions are taken (for example, use of medication) it is the Passenger’s responsibility to ensure that all such precautions are in fact taken before, during and after the flight (as the case may be) and that the Passenger will be able to produce the written evidence of their fitness to fly required by these Conditions of Carriage.

6.1.2 

If any reasonable doubt exists about the Passenger’s fitness to fly, the Passenger may not be accepted for carriage unless they have produced to the Airline no later than three (3) Business Days before departure time a medical report from an appropriately qualified doctor, bearing a date no more than ten (10) days before the flight date and time, which confirms the fitness to travel on all flights on which the Passenger intends to travel.

Any assessment or appointment with the consulting doctor is at the Passenger’s expense. Photocopied or fax copies of the form are acceptable provided the information can be clearly read. In providing a medical report the Passenger waives the confidentiality of this information disclosed by the consulting doctor. Airlink may disclose the information on this form to any other carrier associated with the Passenger’s ticket. Airlink reserves the right to deny boarding if no medical clearance is obtained or if the Airline considers that it is not in the Passenger’s best interests to fly.

NOTE: AT TIME OF TRAVEL
If a Passenger appears to be physically ill (e.g. vomiting, requiring first aid or oxygen) in the terminal area or while boarding the aircraft, or presents other symptoms which create a reasonable concern that they may not be able to complete the flight safely, the Passenger may be denied boarding and not be permitted to travel until medical clearance is obtained.

6.1.3 

Confirmation to fly is required from the Airlink Revenue Control office at least three (3) Business Days before the flight departure time for the following medical conditions:

6.1.3.1

A condition which is believed to be actively contagious or communicable and life threatening to other Passengers or crew; or

6.1.3.2 

Which may cause or induce unusual behaviour, or a physical condition, which could have an adverse effect on the safety, welfare and/or comfort of other Passengers or crew members; or

6.1.3.3 

Which is considered to be a potential hazard to the safety of the flight; or

6.1.3.4 

Which may cause the flight to be diverted or perform an unscheduled stop during carriage.

6.2 Passengers with Special Needs

6.2.1 

Passengers with special medical needs including those requiring wheelchair assistance are required to contact the Airlink Revenue Control office +27 11 4517300 or +27 11 4517350 prior to the flight. If you book your ticket by phone, internet or a travel agent, please tell the agent about any special needs before your booking is completed.

6.2.2 

Wheelchair and Medical assistance can be booked from Monday to Friday 07h30 – 17h00 and must be done no later than three (3) Business Days prior to departure. For flights over a weekend, as well as Monday, the cut-off for the necessary arrangements for special assistance must be no later than 15h00 on the Friday prior to the Passenger’s flight.

6.2.3 

Regulations limit us to the amount of space available per flight to ensure the Airline have sufficient crew onboard to assist in the event of an emergency situation.

6.2.4 

Passengers with disabilities may not be seated at the emergency exit rows nor the row in front or the row behind the emergency exit.

6.2.5 

Airlink offers the following wheelchair types -

6.2.5.1

WCHR (Wheelchair Ramp) for Passengers who require a wheelchair in the airport terminal to/from the boarding gate and to/from the aircraft steps and must climb stairs but cannot walk long distances and does not need assistance in the bus, on passenger steps and in the aircraft to/from the seat, toilets and with meals.

6.2.5.2 

WCHS (Wheelchair Stairs) for Passengers who require a wheelchair from the airport terminal to and from the aircraft and up and down the stairs. A Passenger Aid Unit (PAU) service will be provided if the Passenger cannot climb stairs at all (e.g. broken leg).

6.2.5.3 

WCHC (Wheelchair to Cabin seat) for Passengers who are completely immobile e.g. Paraplegics and Quadriplegics who require a wheelchair to and from the aircraft via the service of a Passenger Aid Unit (PAU) and to and from their cabin seat. An able bodied assistant needs to accompany quadriplegic Passengers at all times. The Airline cannot accept stretcher cases.

6.2.6

One mobility aid (up to 32kg) e.g. manual wheelchair, is carried free of charge in addition to the applicable free hold baggage allowance. No battery powered wheelchairs or mobility aids weighing in excess of 32kg will be allowed onboard and will need to be carried as cargo.

6.2.6.1

Arrangement for the transportation of these wheelchairs will need to be arranged by the Passenger.

6.2.6.2

Wheelchairs within the limit will only be carried in the hold compartment of our aircraft and not permitted in the main cabin.

6.2.6.3

The aircraft types the Airline operates have different restrictions based on the size of the stowage space.

6.2.7 

Passengers taking their own personal electric wheelchair are permitted wet or dry battery cells see Clause 10.5 (Lithium Batteries) and will need to follow the procedure below:

a) Arrange the wheelchair ahead of time according to Clause 6.2.2
b) Adhere to the weight limitation in Clause 6.2.6
c) Passengers must ensure there are no leaks
d) The terminals must be isolated
e) Collapsible wheelchairs and mobility aids, batteries must be disconnected
f) Passenger must clearly label their batteries “wet” or “dry”
g) Passenger must check-in their own wheelchairs and batteries Clause 10.5

6.2.8

Due to Occupational Health and Safety Law, the maximum weight of a person that can be carried is limited by the capabilities of the individual staff member carrying the Passenger, and may not exceed 100kg.

6.2.9

Wheelchairs and mobility aids that cannot be lifted manually into the aircraft hold will only be accepted for travel if both airports can provide the facilities to load / unload the device. Please note that some airports may not have sufficient equipment for lifting heavy wheelchairs and mobility aids.

6.2.10

Any Passenger unable to fit into a single seat for any reason will be required to purchase additional seats at the prevailing rates to accommodate the Passenger’s needs.

6.2.11

The Airline’s airport staff can only provide wheelchair assistance from the check-in desk to the aircraft as well as from the aircraft to the arrival hall upon landing and to the baggage claim area. This does not include the outside of the airport building nor can they wait with a Passenger or provide help with ground transportation.

6.2.12

Cabin crew may not assist Passengers with feeding of meals, on board facilities or provide medication. Passengers with any of these requirements must travel with an able bodied assistant.

6.2.13

Meet and Assist is for Passengers who require an escort to and from the aircraft. The age and a reason for the Meet and Assist request is required at the time of booking and is limited to:

a) First time flyer / Young Passenger (YP 12 to 16 years of age)
b) Passenger / Guardian travelling with an infant (Clause 5.1.5)
c) Elderly Passenger
d) Non-English speaking

6.2.14 

As a rule, Airlink carries Passengers with Reduced Mobility. It is however important to note the following points:-

a) The routes to the boarding gates at most airports are often long and complicated and Passengers may have difficulty finding their way around and communicating. Security, customs and police checkpoints may cause stress and anxiety.

b) It is absolutely imperative that the Passenger is able to follow the crew’s safety instructions during the flight. Children with medical conditions are subject to the same MEDA procedure as adults.

c) The inability of a person with a medical impairment to cope should not be under estimated. With specific impairments which lead to confusion or disorientation, there is a risk that the Passenger will not pay attention to the safety instructions issued by the flight attendants. It can also have unforeseen consequences if the Passenger disembarks from the flight without supervision as they could get lost in the airport buildings or within the airport perimeter and become increasingly confused and anxious. Should the Passenger run such a risk, we strongly recommend that someone travels with them. This includes but not limited to Passengers that have:

• Alzheimer’s
• Dementia
• Deaf and Mute
• Mental Impairment
• Hearing Impairment
• Unaccompanied Minors with a Medical Condition (escort recommended)
• Visually Impaired
• Cognitive Disabilities

6.2.15 

In certain circumstances for safety reasons, Airlink requires an escort or carer who must be 18 years and older to accompany Passengers who are unable to care for themselves during a flight and who must be seated next to them at all times as follows:

a) Passengers cannot help themselves in the event of an emergency evacuation.
b) If Passengers cannot communicate, understand or respond properly with flight attendants over safety instructions.
c) If Passengers have severe hearing and vision impairments and cannot establish some means of communication with Airline employees.
d) The Passenger is unable to self-toilet.
e) Unable to eat and drink without assistance.

6.2.16 

The escort or carer must be self-reliant and mentally and physically able to assist the Passenger with the following if required:

a) Toilet and sanitary requirements both on the aircraft and on the ground.
b) Inflight and ground emergencies.
c) Carriage of carry-on baggage and/or equipment.
d) Food and beverage consumption.
e) Immigration and custom procedures (if applicable).
f) Boarding and disembarkation.

6.2.17 

Flight attendants are not permitted to assist with feeding or personal hygiene and toilet functions. They cannot lift or carry you, and they cannot provide medical services such as giving injections. If your medical condition requires others to provide this type of care, you should travel with a ticketed escort or carer who can see to these needs during the flight.

6.2.18 

Travelling with medication
Please ensure that you keep your medication in your hand luggage, and have a medical letter on hand outlining your condition and medication, in case you encounter difficulties while travelling.

a) All excess medicines and liquids are to be carried in checked baggage.
b) All prescription medicine, syringes and needles used by diabetics must be sealed and properly labelled.
c) The quantity of syringes and needles is limited to the amount required for the flight.
d) They must be disposed of safely once you’ve reached your destination.
e) For medication requiring refrigeration make sure that you bring your cooler box with ice packs. This medication must be kept with the Passenger throughout duration of the flight.

6.2.19 

Colostomy Bags
Passengers dependent on colostomy bags must ensure that they use an empty bag at the start of the journey and carry a sufficient number of bags for the duration of the flight and dispose of them in a responsible manner upon arrival at destination.

6.2.20 

Plaster Cast
Passengers travelling with a broken limb in a plaster cast will be regarded as a medical Passenger. The plaster cast must also be split open to ensure maximum comfort on board. Casts should be loosely fitted to allow for expansion and swelling at high altitudes.

6.2.21 

Artificial Limbs
Due to limited stowage space in the cabin you may be restricted to carrying only one spare limb as part of your cabin baggage, additional limbs may be stowed as checked baggage. Please be aware that longer items (legs for above-knee amputees for example) may not be able to be accommodated in the cabin of the aircraft. Please package longer prosthesis' sufficiently for protection should they need to be checked-in, if required to be checked in there will be no charge.

6.2.22 

Allergies
Passengers who are allergic to peanuts and/or other substances are required to bring it to the attention of the booking agent. In the event that you suffer from a severe allergy, you are required to bring your own emergency medication with you. Airlink will not take any responsibility should you have an allergic reaction on board.

6.3 Standard Information needed for any Wheelchair Request 

6.3.1.

Wheelchair assistance may be made available in the event that the Passenger makes the necessary arrangements with the Airline at least three business (3) days prior to the departure date of the flight. This assistance service is provided free of charge to the Passenger.

6.3.2

In the event that wheelchair assistance is not available prior to the departure of the Passenger’s flight for whatever reason, the Passenger may elect to cancel his/her flight and the Airline will refund the Passenger in full.

6.3.3

In the event that the Passenger elects to continue with his/her journey in the absence of wheelchair assistance, the Passenger does so at his/her own risk and indemnifies and holds harmless the Airline and its representatives against any claims and damages that may arise from the Passenger’s decision to continue with his/her journey, save for claims that may arise due to gross negligence of the Airline and/or its representatives.

6.3.4

In the event that the wheelchair assistance service is made available as requested, the Passenger avails of such service at his/her own risk and indemnifies and holds harmless the Airline and its representatives against any claims and damages that may arise from the Passenger’s decision to continue with his/her journey, save for claims that may arise due to gross negligence of the Airline and/or its representatives. The Passenger will be required to sign an indemnity prior to the wheelchair assistance service being rendered.

6.3.5 

The following information is required for all medical clearance bookings –

a) The age and weight of the Passenger.
b) The reason for wheelchair or meet and assist.
c) Whether the Passenger can walk long distances.
d) Whether the Passenger can climb stairs.
e) Whether the Passenger can see to their own needs onboard the aircraft for the duration of the flight including toilet facilities.
f) Whether the Passenger can sit in an upright position and can bend knees at 90 degrees for the duration of the flight.
g) If a Manual wheelchair or a Battery operated wheelchair.
h) The Weight of the wheelchair, including battery if applicable.

6.4 Situations Where Doctors Medical Report is Required

6.4.1

A Medical Report from an appropriately qualified doctor, bearing a date no more than ten (10) days before the flight date and time, which confirms that the passenger requires the assistance from Airlink for the following:

a) Any type of heart condition
b) Any type of spinal or brain injury
c) Any type of cancer
d) Emphysema / COPD / Asthma
e) Strokes within the previous six (6) months
f) Parkinson’s Disease
g) Epilepsy
h) Serious back or Spinal problems within the previous six (6) months
i) Travelling with a premature Infant or Infant with a Medical Condition
j) Unaccompanied minors with a Medical Condition (escort recommended)

6.4.2

Medical Request Forms
A Special Medical Needs Request Form (MEDA) is required to assess your fitness to fly, especially if you need special attention or use any medical equipment onboard.

A Medical Indemnity Form (MEDIF) should be completed by you when requested by Airlink.

Completed forms should be e-mailed to the Airlink Revenue Control office [email protected]. All medical information is strictly confidential.

No medical clearance or special type of form is required for incapacitated Passengers who only require special assistance at the airport or during the embarkation or disembarkation process.

6.4.3

A Medical Report from a suitably qualified medical practitioner, bearing a date no more than ten (10) days before the Passenger’s flight date and time, which confirms the Passenger’s fitness to travel on all flights on which the Passenger intends to travel for ailments listed below -

a) Strokes within the previous 6 - 12 months
b) Serious back problems within the previous 6 - 12 months
c) Alzheimer's/Parkinson's Disease
d) Pregnant women who are experiencing complications or expecting more than one baby.

6.4.4 

Mentally challenged Passengers must include the mental and physical age and declare that they are fit to travel.

6.5 Diabetics

6.5.1

The Passenger will be allowed to take insulin and one needle onboard in the cabin but the medication has to be self-administered.

6.5.2

If the Passenger requires insulin needles, a suitably qualified medical practitioner's note must be presented at the check-in counter and at the security checkpoints on the day of departure.

6.5.3

All medication must be kept in the Passenger’s cabin baggage.

6.6 Oxygen, Ventilators, Respirators, CPAP/BiPAP Machines

6.6.1

For safety reasons the Airline does not permit Passengers to bring their own Portable Oxygen Concentrators / Cylinders (POC) onboard the aircraft in Checked or Unchecked Baggage. The Airline is not equipped to supply oxygen onboard the Aircraft.

6.6.2

Portable self-powered using a gel or dry battery assistive devices such as personal ventilators, respirators, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) and Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) machines may be carried and used onboard the Airline subject to approval at no charge in carry-on luggage only. These assistive devices are limited to one (1) unit per Passenger. Some seating restrictions may be necessary to comply with certain safety rules. The medical units must display a manufacturer's label indicating the device meets FAA requirements.

6.6.3

An advance request for authority to Airlink Revenue Control office +27 11 4517300 or +27 11 4517350 must be made three (3) Business days before flight departure for Passengers using a ventilator, respirator, CPAP or BiPAP machines onboard.

6.6.4

Please note that aircraft in-seat electrical power is not available for ventilators, respirators, CPAP or BiPAP machines, therefore Passengers must have an ample supply of fully charged batteries for the flight to cover any unforeseen delays.

6.7 Mental Disability

6.7.1

To travel in complete safety, mentally disabled passengers must be able to understand and implement security measures. However, it is important to take into account all aspects of air travel:

a) The path through large airports can be complex, long and difficult.
b) Safety, police and customs checks can take time, be stressful and, at times, intrusive.
c) International airports may pose linguistic and orientation difficulties.
d) The flight can experience turbulence and/or require a passenger to perform unusual safety measures.

We strongly advise against overestimating the capacity of a mentally disabled person to deal with these eventualities.

6.7.2

For certain types of disabilities that causes memory loss or orientation difficulties (e.g. Alzheimer's), the risk of misinterpreting instructions provided by the crew is real. Examples include disembarking without waiting for assistance which can have serious consequences including confusion at the terminal or outside, taking the wrong transportation and problems recognising where one is. If the person traveling may find him/herself in this situation, we strongly recommend that he/she travels with a companion.

6.7.3

While no physical identification is required to identify mentally disabled passengers on board, it is important that the cabin crew members are able to identify them in order to provide the assistance required, especially in emergency situations. We therefore strongly recommend that you inform us of any mentally disabled passengers.

6.7.4

Assistance services for mentally disabled passengers do not include:

• help eating, drinking or taking medication,
• assistance in the restrooms,
• any other form of personal assistance.

It is therefore necessary to ensure that the unaccompanied passenger is able to perform certain duties necessary during air travel, without outside help.

If this is not the case, we strongly recommend that mentally disabled passengers travel with a companion in order to avoid any difficulty on board.

6.7.5

A medical practitioner must issue a medical certificate, certifying such a person is suitable for carriage by air and confirming that there is no risk of violence from such a person.

6.7.6

If the Passenger’s mental age is 11 years and younger then they shall be treated as an Unaccompanied Minor see Clause 6.13. If the mental age is 12 years and older then Airlink requires an escort or carer who must be 18 years and older to accompany such Passenger.

6.8 Carriage of Pregnant Passengers and Newborn Children

6.8.1

The Airline will carry pregnant Passengers as provided for below. All pregnant women beyond twenty eight (28) weeks gestation must provide a signed letter by a suitably qualified Gynaecologist, General Medical Practitioner or Midwife, stating the following:

a) Passengers due date and term of pregnancy.
b) Any possible complications including hypertensive Passengers, history of premature labour, etc.
c) The letter should also advise the Airline of the latest date up to which the Passenger is expected to be fit to travel.
d) Whether it is a single, multiple or a high risk pregnancy.

In addition, the Passenger will require prior clearance from the Airlink Revenue Control office for travel as follows:

e) up to thirty six (36) weeks pregnancy for Domestic travel, and
f) up to thirty five (35) weeks pregnancy for Regional travel

6.8.2

Carriage of newborn infants will not be permitted until seven (7) days after the date of birth of the newborn infant.

6.8.3 

The parents of newborn infants must present sufficient proof of parenthood at the check-in counter for the check-in procedure.

6.9 Special Assistance

6.9.1

Acceptance for carriage of unaccompanied children, incapacitated persons, pregnant women, infants and persons with illness or other people requiring special assistance is subject to prior arrangement and limitation with the Airline and the reasonable discretion of the Airline.

6.9.2

Passengers with disabilities who have advised the Airline of any special requirements they may have at the time of ticketing, and have been accepted by the Airline shall not subsequently be refused carriage on the basis of such disability or special requirements, but our regulations or government regulations may apply to the transport of such Passengers.

6.9.3

Special assistance Passengers may not be seated near an Emergency Exit.

6.10 Service Dogs

6.10.1

A Service Dog (SVAN) is a dog that has been trained to perform an active task to assist a person with a diagnosed disability (including sensory or physical disabilities other than a vision or hearing impairment) to alleviate the effects of that disability being either a Guide dog, Hearing dog, Diabetic Alert dog, Seizure alert dog or Medical Response dog.

6.10.2

Service dogs must be on duty and easily identified as a service dog wearing a vest, have an ID card, other written documentation (if the passenger’s verbal assurance is not credible) and a harness.

6.10.3

The Airline will accept a recognised trained service dog providing necessary assistance to the passenger under the following conditions:

a) One service dog per passenger permitted inside the passenger cabin on Airlink Regional and Domestic flights free of charge.
b) The size of the dog must not exceed the footprint or personal space of the passenger seat and foot area during the entire flight.
c) The service dog must be trained to assist the passenger with a disability or medical condition.
d) Have documentary evidence confirming the dog is a trained service dog.
e) Wear an identifying jacket/harness.
f) Must be leashed or in an approved carrier that fits under the seat.
g) Must remain under the control of the owner at all times in the airport and onboard the aircraft.
h) Do not overwater or overfeed service dog on the day of travel.
i) May not occupy a seat or sit on a tray table at any time.
j) May not obstruct the aisles or exit rows.
k) Give yourself ample time to check-in and advise the check-in agent to ensure we have included your service dog for onboard travel.
l) We recommend you carry the trained service dog’s current documentation to fly including health vaccination and rabies certificates (must be within one (1) year of travel date).
m) Details of the breed and weight of dog in question.
n) Service dogs in training nor pit bull type dogs as service dogs are not permitted.
o) Your service dog cannot travel in the cabin if you are:

• An Unaccompanied Minor 
• Are seated in an Exit or Bulkhead row
• Require the use of a medical device that requires stowage under your seat

6.10.4

Service dogs must be pre booked with the Airlink Revenue Control office +27 11 4517300 or +27 11 4517350 from Monday to Friday 07h30–17h00 no later than three (3) Business Days prior to departure. For flights over a weekend, as well as Monday, the cut-off for the necessary arrangements for special assistance must be no later than 15h00 on the Friday prior to the Passenger’s flight.

6.10.5

To ensure the safe and undisturbed operation of the flight, service dogs must be trained to be obedient to your commands and must behave appropriately in a public space with no barking, growling, or jumping up at people or other animals.

6.10.6

On no account may the dog relieve itself in the cabin or at the boarding gate, or may only be permitted to do so in such a way as to cause no health risk or hygiene problem.

6.10.7

Service dogs may not obstruct an aisle or any other area used for an emergency evacuation. Service animals should remain on the floor at the owner’s feet and may not occupy a seat. The size of the dog must not exceed the footprint of the passenger’s seat. 

6.11 Emotional Support Dogs not permitted on Cessna operated flights

6.11.1

An Emotional Support Dog or Psychiatric Support Dog (ESAN) can only be used by passenger’s diagnosed with mental or emotional disorder and need not have specific training for that function but must be trained to behave appropriately in a public setting and obey your commands. If this is not the case, you may need to provide a certificate indicating that the dog has been trained or the dog may not be allowed in the aircraft cabin.

6.11.2

Emotional Support / Psychiatric Service Animals require signed current documentation that is no more than one (1) year old (prior to the first flight in the itinerary) on a letterhead from a licensed mental health professional (registered psychologist or psychiatrist) stating the following:

a) The passenger has a mental health-related disability.
b) The dog accompanying the passenger is necessary to the customer’s mental health or treatment.
c) The description, breed and weight of the dog.
d) The individual providing the assessment of the passenger is a licensed mental health professional and the passenger is regularly treated by this mental health professional and under his or her professional care.

Always include the reservation booking number on all correspondence.

6.11.3

We will refuse transportation of the animal if it engages in disruptive or aggressive behaviour such as:

• Growling
• Biting
• Jumping on passenger, flight attendants or staff
• Relieving themselves in the gate area or cabin
• Barking excessively, not in response to a handlers need or distress
• Eating off seatback tray tables

6.11.4

Support dogs must be pre booked with the Airlink Revenue Control office +27 11 4517300 or +27 11 4517350 from Monday to Friday 07h30–17h00 no later than three (3) Business Days prior to departure. For flights over a weekend, as well as Monday, the cut-off for the necessary arrangements for special assistance must be no later than 15h00 on the Friday prior to the Passenger’s flight.

6.11.5

Passengers are limited to one (1) support dog, six (6) months and older that must be seated and fit within the floor within the footprint of the seat or in a passenger’s lap. No animals are allowed to occupy passenger seats.

6.11.6

On no account may the dog relieve itself in the cabin or at the boarding gate, or may only be permitted to do so in such a way as to cause no health risk or hygiene problem.

6.11.7

Emotional Support Dogs must have been vaccinated for rabies (see 10.14.12). The health and vaccination certificates including relevant documentation and certification of the service animal must be presented for carriage at check-in. 

6.12 Passenger Reimbursement for Medical Expenses and Directly Related Expenses Incurred by Airlink on Their Behalf

6.12.1

If a Passenger becomes ill onboard the aircraft or in the airport terminal building after the check-in procedure due to a pre-existing condition (regardless of whether or not the Passenger was aware of it) or due to the pregnancy and it is required by the Airline to medically assist the Passenger for whatever reason, the Passenger will be liable for the cost of the medical expenses paid for by the Airline in providing treatment to the Passenger onboard an aircraft or in the airport terminal building, as well as for transporting the Passenger on the ground and paying for treatment provided by a third party.

The Airline furthermore reserves the right to levy a reasonable administration fee on such services and/or medical assistance.

6.12.2

The Passenger will be liable to the Airline for all cost directly and incidental in the event that it is required, in the reasonable discretion of the Captain of the flight and in terms of the Airline’s medical diversion policy, to divert the flight to the nearest airport in an effort to ensure that the Passenger receives the appropriate medical treatment.

6.13 Carriage of Unaccompanied Children

Who is Eligible?

6.13.1

An unaccompanied minor is a child (five (5) to eleven (11) years of age) on the date the flight commences who is travelling without the supervision of a parent or guardian who is aged sixteen (16) years or older who will be responsible for the safety of the child / children.

6.13.2

Children under five (5) years of age will not be permitted to travel alone.

6.13.3

A young Passenger is a child who is at least twelve (12) years old, but under sixteen (16) years of age.

6.13.4

For the purpose of fares, any Passenger between the ages of twelve (12) to sixteen (16) is considered an adult, therefore no special handling is required unless requested by the parent.

Conditions of Travel

6.13.5

Prior authorisation from Airlink must be obtained.

6.13.6

Reservations for unaccompanied minors cannot be booked online. Please contact the Airlink Revenue Control office +27 11 4517300 or +27 11 4517350 from Monday to Friday 07h30 – 17h00 and must be done no later than three (3) Business Days prior to departure. For flights over a weekend, as well as Monday, the cut-off for the necessary arrangements for special assistance must be no later than 15h00 on the Friday prior to the Passenger’s flight.

6.13.7

Unaccompanied minors must be in possession of written consent (see reverse of last coupon of unaccompanied minor booklet) from their parent or guardians.

6.13.8

The unaccompanied child shall be escorted to the airport check-in desk for the check-in procedure by a parent or guardian responsible for the unaccompanied child who remains in the airport with an allocated member of the Airline’s staff until the unaccompanied child has boarded the aircraft and it has departed from the airport.

The parent or guardian responsible for the unaccompanied child is required to provide information to the Airline that the unaccompanied child will be met at the destination airport or Stopover airport by another parent or guardian responsible for the child (with full details of that person’s identity) and into whose custody the child can be delivered.

6.13.9

The child Passenger shall have a confirmed reservation for the flight and it is not reasonably anticipated by the Airline that the flight will terminate at a place other than its destination or make an unexpected stop at any other place due to weather or other operational conditions.

At the Airport

6.13.11

For safety and security reasons, Airlink reserves the right to refuse travel if the child is not booked as an unaccompanied minor.

6.13.12

Please ensure the check-in times are adhered to.

6.13.13

For Regional flights, please ensure that the necessary documentation is completed and in order.

6.13.14

At the check-in counter an Airlink representative will escort your child through the respective Security checkpoints / Passport control right until the Passenger door to the aircraft and handed to the flight cabin attendant.

6.13.15

Parents / guardians should remain at the airport until the flight takes off.

In the Air

6.13.16

Before the flight, the cabin crew will be notified of your child’s name, age and any special requirements. They will regularly check that your child is comfortable and entertained throughout the flight.

On Arrival

6.13.17

Upon landing, your child will be introduced to an Airlink / handling agent host, who will escort them through airport immigration (international flights only) to arrivals and personally hand them to the parent or guardian. This person must carry proof of identification. Kindly ensure that the appointed guardian is not late, causing unnecessary distress to the child.

Transit Stations

6.13.18

At transit stops, your child will always remain in the care of the ground staff.

Onward and Return Flights

6.13.19

Should you need to change your child’s travel plans, inform Airlink at any time before or during the trip as restrictions do apply to some airfares. There are also restrictions on the number of unaccompanied children that are permitted on each flight. Please check that the request for travel as an unaccompanied minor is transferred to the new flight.

Inform your Child

6.13.20

We will do our best to ensure that your child has a pleasant journey from start to finish. Below are a few things that you can do to make it easier.

a) Make sure your child knows who is to meet them upon arrival at their destination.
b) Explain the importance of their Passport and Tickets, and ensure that they can recognise both.
c) The Unaccompanied Minor identification lanyard cannot be removed as it is a form of classification.
d) Children must not leave the aircraft unattended, and must wait for the cabin crew’s assistance before they exit the plane.

7.1 Check-in Times

Passenger must present themselves for check-in at the designated check-in counter no later than the time stipulated below before the scheduled departure time of the flight as indicated on the Passenger's Ticket.

7.2 Flight closure times

7.3 Flight boarding times

7.4 Boarding gate closing times

7.4.1

The Passenger must be present at the boarding gate no later than the time specified on the Passenger's boarding card.

7.4.2 

Passengers that check-in must report directly to the boarding gates within the times stipulated above. Failure to do so will result in the Passenger and their Checked Baggage being offloaded from the flight and will be deemed a “no-show” and the Ticket flight coupon will be forfeited. The Airline will not be liable for any loss or expense incurred due to the Passenger’s failure to comply with this provision.

7.5 General Check–in Information

7.5.1

Notwithstanding the provisions of Clause 7.1 (Check-in Times), check-in deadlines are different at the various airports and the Airline recommends that the Passenger informs themselves about these check-in deadlines and honour them accordingly. The Passenger's journey will be more convenient if the Passenger allows sufficient time to comply with the check-in deadlines.

7.5.2

The Airline reserves the right to cancel the reservation if the Passenger does not comply with the check-in deadlines indicated.

7.5.3

Self-service check-in facilities include Online and Kiosk. Passengers can check-in on a computer, tablet or smartphone via

https://checkin.si.amadeus.net/static/PRD/4Z/#/identification 

Online check-in opens 24 hours before departure time and closes 60 minutes before scheduled flight departure.

7.5.4 

The Airline does not assume any responsibility for failed or wrongful displays on the airport monitors. Passengers are required to present themselves no later than the time stipulated on the boarding pass for boarding and will be informed at the boarding gates of any irregular operation by the Airline representative.

7.5.5

The Airline cannot be held liable for missed flights due to heavy traffic, roadworks, traffic jams, load shedding, forgotten documents, long queues and congestion for security checks and passport control which are beyond the Airline’s control. We strongly encourage you to have a considerable amount of time available in between flights to allow you to make the connecting flight hassle free.  

7.6 Check-In options

7.6.1

Check in options available for Airlink flights.

• a) Check-in at the Airport: Check-in at an Airlink designated counter at the airport no later than 2 hours for domestic and 3 hours for regional flights. A printed boarding pass, e-mail boarding pass or SMS boarding pass is available.
• b) Self Service Kiosk: At all major airports, use the self-service check-in kiosks to check in and have a boarding pass printed and proceed with baggage to the Airlink check-in counter. In the event of hand luggage only, proceed directly to the security gate.   
• c) Web and Mobile Check-in: Passengers may check-in online 24 hours prior to flight departure time on any smartphone enabled device. Show the online boarding pass at the security gates and boarding gates for scanning and processing. No third party check-in is allowed.

For home printed boarding passes, the entire boarding pass document must be printed on A4 paper and be legible and have a minimum resolution of 300 dpi. If these conditions are not met the Passenger will be required to collect a boarding pass at the check-in counters or at the self-service kiosk. If the Passenger has no check-in luggage you may proceed directly to security without reporting to the check-in counter.

7.6.2

Certain airports have a baggage drop counter where the Passenger can hand in the bag no later than sixty (60) minutes prior to departure. Failure to do so will cause the Baggage not to be loaded onboard the aircraft. Baggage must conform with the Airline’s baggage policy and for safety reasons certain dangerous articles must not be carried in Passenger’s Baggage. Please refer to Clause 10.4 (Items Not Allowed In Passenger’s Baggage).

7.6.3

If a baggage drop counter is unavailable, a normal check-in counter can be used.

7.6.4

Passengers need to check the flight information screens in the departure terminal for boarding and gate information as this will not be printed on the home printed boarding pass.

7.6.5

Boarding commences in advance prior to flight departure time. Passengers who fail to present themselves at the boarding gate on time will be denied travel without compensation and baggage offloaded. Boarding times vary across the Airlink network see Clause 7.3 (Flight Boarding Times). Please allow enough time to pass through Immigration and Security. High traffic at peak times will be experienced so please allow more than 2 hours before departure time for boarding formalities.

7.6.6

All Passengers using the online check-in facility must produce valid identification, as provided for in Clause 3.1.1 (Tickets and Identification), which will be checked at the boarding gate. Any Passenger without the appropriate identification will be denied boarding and their Baggage offloaded from the aircraft if applicable.

7.6.7

Any Passenger failing to present their boarding pass at the boarding gate will be required to have the boarding pass reissued at the Airlink check-in counter. On return to security the Passenger will be obliged to resubmit themselves for the security screening. The Airline accepts no liability where such process results in a Passenger missing their flight by failing to report at the boarding gate at the stipulated time before the flights departure.

7.6.8

Passengers travelling with hand luggage should ensure that it meets the Airline’s requirements with respect to number, size and weight of articles being carried and does not contain any sharp or dangerous objects. The Airline reserves the right to refuse acceptance of hand luggage that is not in conformity with its baggage policy.

7.6.9

The Airline reserves the right to suspend or terminate the online check-in facility for certain flights from time to time at its discretion. In this case the Passenger will be required to check-in in accordance with the normal airport check-in procedure.

8.1 Refusals and Limitation of Carriage

In its reasonable discretion, the Airline may refuse to carry a Passenger and the Passenger’s Baggage if the Airline has notified the Passenger that it would not at any time after the date of such notice carry the Passenger and the Passenger’s Baggage on its flights. In these circumstances the Passenger will be entitled to a refund in full.

The Airline shall refuse to carry the Passenger and the Passenger’s Baggage if one or more of the following have occurred or the Airline reasonably believes may occur:

8.1.1

Such action as is necessary in order to comply with any applicable government Laws, Regulations, and Orders.

8.1.2

The carriage of the Passenger or the Passenger’s Baggage is in contravention of any applicable government Laws, regulations and orders.

8.1.3

The carriage of the Passenger or the Passenger’s Baggage may endanger or affect the safety, health and/or materially affect the comfort of other Passengers and crew.

8.1.4

The Passenger’s mental or physical state, including suspected impairment from alcohol, drugs or is intoxicated under the influence of alcohol and presents a hazard or risk to themselves, to Passengers, to crew, or to property.

8.1.5

The Passenger has committed misconduct on a previous flight, and the Airline has reason to believe that such conduct may be repeated.

8.1.6

The Passenger has refused to allow a security check on themselves or their baggage.

8.1.7

The Passenger has not paid the applicable fare, taxes, fees or charges.

8.1.8

The Passenger does not meet the requirements in relation to the Passenger’s medical fitness to fly.

8.1.9

The Passenger presents a Ticket that has been acquired unlawfully or by fraudulent means (for example stolen credit or debit card) in our reasonable opinion, or has been reported as being lost or stolen, is a counterfeit, forged or falsified or the Passenger cannot prove that the Passenger is the person named on the Ticket.

8.1.10

The Passenger has failed to comply with the requirements concerning coupon sequence and use, or the Passenger presents a Ticket which has been issued or altered in any way, other than by the Airline or an Authorised Agent.

8.1.11

The Passenger has disobeyed instructions relating to safety or security from the ground staff or flight crew.

8.1.12

The Passenger uses threatening, abusive, insulting or indecent words or behaviour or manner to any person, including ground staff, members of crew or other Passengers prior to or during any of the operations of embarkation on the Passenger’s flight, or disembarkation from a connecting flight, or on board the aircraft before take-off.

8.1.13

The Passenger appears in the Airline’s reasonable opinion, not to meet Visa requirements or not to have valid or lawfully acquired travel documents or the Passenger has acquired it by fraudulent means or destroys the travel documents aboard the aircraft or between the check-in and boarding, or refuses to allow the Airline to copy the travel documents, or surrender the travel documents.

8.1.14

The Passenger has made a hoax bomb threat.

8.1.15

The Passenger has committed a criminal offence during the check-in or boarding processes or on board the aircraft prior to take off.

8.1.16

The doctor’s letter or Medical Clearance report is not completed by a medical practitioner (registered doctor) or the contents are false and/or does not match the medical condition declared by the Passenger or are seen as an excuse to travel without the required clearances.

8.2 Reimbursement of Costs

If the Passenger is refused carriage for any of the reasons set out above, the Passenger will be obliged to reimburse the Airline for any costs the Airline incurs resulting from -

• a) Repair or replacement of property lost, damaged or destroyed by the Passenger.
• b) Compensation the Airline is obliged to pay to any Passenger or crew member affected by the Passenger’s actions.
• c) Delaying the aircraft for the purpose of removing the Passenger and/or the Passenger’s Baggage.
• d) Any consequential costs or losses that the Airline may incur as a result of the Passenger’s conduct or misconduct.
• e) The Airline reserves the right to apply towards such payment or expenditure the value of any unused carriage on the Passenger’s Ticket or any of the funds in our possession.

8.3 Onboard Services

8.3.1

All meal requests (on meal catered routes) must be ordered by no later than three (3) Business Days prior to the departure time. Meal selection are based on the following meal choices -

• KSML – Kosher meal
• VGML – Vegetarian and Vegan meal; or
• MOML - Muslim meal

8.3.2

For operational reasons, the Airline does not guarantee the availability of special meals or any other type of meals. The Airline does not guarantee that special meals will always conform to their exact description since it has been prepared by third parties to our order.

8.3.3

The Airline does not accept requests for nut free meals and does not guarantee that the environment aboard its aircraft will be nut or nut produce free. It is the Passenger’s responsibility to take the necessary precautions in the event that you may suffer from any nut related allergies of any nature whatsoever.

8.4 Ground Services

The Airline does not guarantee the provision/availability of equipment and services on the ground at the airports, including airport lounges. The Airline does not guarantee that ground services will always conform to their exact description since some services are provided by third parties to our order.

8.5 Weight Limitations

If the event that the Airline reasonably believes that its aircraft weight limitation or seating capacity would otherwise be exceeded, the Airline will decide within its reasonable discretion which Passengers and Baggage shall be carried in the interest of the safety of our Passengers.

9.1 General

9.1.1

Whilst the Airline will make all reasonable endeavours to provide the service as indicated on the Electronic Ticket (E-ticket) Itinerary, flight times and flight schedules are subject to change without prior notice. 

In the event of non-performance, partial performance or a delay to a Passenger’s itinerary resulting wholly or partly from such change necessitated by an occurrence or circumstance beyond the Airline’s reasonable control including (without limitation) the acts or omissions of third parties including governmental authorities, all civil aviation authorities, airport, air traffic control and other public authorities. Whilst the Airline shall make reasonable endeavours to mitigate the impact of such events on the passenger, by offering an alternative itinerary, it shall have no additional liability to the passenger.

9.1.2

Should the Airline make an Involuntary Change to the Passengers itinerary, subsequent to the issue of the E-ticket, the Airline may offer an alternative itinerary. 

In the event that the alternative itinerary is not accepted by the Passenger the Airline may offer to extend the ticket validity to two years (from the original date of issue), allow the Passenger one free date change which must fall within the ticket validity and the same ticketed class of travel, at no additional cost.  If the flight subsequently chosen by the Passenger does not have seats available at the original fare stated on the E-ticket Itinerary, the Passenger will be liable for any difference in fare and taxes but the rebooking fee will be waivered.

Should the Passenger no longer wish to travel due to the changes to the itinerary the Passenger may request a refund as per the fare rules and the terms of Clause 11.2 (Involuntary Refunds). The Airline will have no liability to the Passenger for any loss or expense whatsoever as a result of the changes to the Passengers itinerary. 


9.1.3

In the process of accepting and confirming the Passenger’s booking, the Airline or our Authorised Agent will reconfirm with the Passenger their flight itinerary and number of seats to be booked which will be displayed on the E-ticket Itinerary Receipt. 

Should the Airline subsequently be required to make changes to the Passengers itinerary, after the E-ticket has been issued, it is the Passenger’s obligation to the Airline or its Authorised Agent to have provided complete and accurate contact information so as to enable the Airline or the Authorised Agent to notify the Passenger of any such change. Should such contact information not have been provided, be incomplete or erroneous the Airline shall have no liability to the passenger for not advising of the change.     


9.2 Disruption to Operation as a Result of Government Regulations  

9.2.1

The provisions below applies at any time that any jurisdiction in which the Airline operates is in a state of disaster, a state of emergency or any similar state declared by a person of competent authority.    

9.2.2

The Passenger acknowledges that as a result of measures put in place, and varied, from time to time by persons of competent authority representing the government of the applicable jurisdiction, the Airline may experience disruption to its normal, scheduled, or planned operations and such disruptions may include, but are not limited to:

9.2.2.1

limitations on the air routes on which the airline may operate, necessitating the cancellation of flights;

9.2.2.2

closures of national or provincial borders, necessitating the cancellation of flights;

9.2.2.3

closures of airports, temporarily or permanently, to either or both of international or domestic flights;

9.2.2.4

limitations placed on the capacities of airports to accommodate passengers which may necessitate the cancellation or rescheduling of flights;

9.2.2.5

changes to the operating hours of airports, which may necessitate the cancellation or rescheduling of flights;

9.2.2.6

changes to the hours of curfew within a province, or nationally, which may necessitate the cancellation or rescheduling of flights;

9.2.2.7

restrictions on the numbers of passengers that may be accommodated on the Airline’s aircraft;

9.2.2.8

restrictions on the provision of refreshments and other amenities on the Airline’s aircraft; 

9.2.2.9

health screening and certification requirements placed on Airline’s staff and passengers which may render some staff or passenger’s ineligible to board an aircraft; and

9.2.2.10

conduct requirements placed on passengers applicable while in an airport and while in an aircraft.


9.2.3

The Airline will employ reasonable measures to alert the Passenger, as soon as reasonably possible, to any changes which the Airline is required to make to any of its scheduled flights as a result of such measures, and which will have a material impact on the Passenger, such as the cancellation of a flight or the rescheduling of a flight.

9.2.4

The Airline will not be liable to any Passenger for any alleged loss or damage, howsoever arising, incurred as a result of the Airline’s compliance with the measures put in place by the competent authority representing the government of the applicable jurisdiction and/or as a result of the Airline being obliged, or electing to, make changes to its scheduled operations and/or as a result of the Passenger not receiving notice of any operational changes affecting the Passenger.



9.3 Remedies for Cancellation, Rerouting and Delays for Technical or Operational Delays Caused by Airlink (Excluding Force Majeure and Force Majeure for 3rd Parties)

9.3.1

It may happen that delays in departure times and the duration of a flight occur because of circumstances beyond the Airline’s control (for example air traffic control delays or strikes). The Airline will take all reasonable measures required to avoid a delay in providing carriage to the Passenger and the Baggage. These measures may include using an alternative aircraft or arranging for a flight to be operated for the Airline by an alternative Airline.

9.3.2

The Passenger will be entitled to choose one of the following three (3) available Remedies in the event of a Cancellation or a Schedule Change as a result of Technical or Operational reasons and the Airline -

• fails to stop at the Passenger destination, or; 
• cause the Passenger to miss a connecting flight with the Airline or with another Airline for which the Passenger hold a through confirmed Ticket* (with a planned connection time of twenty four (24) hours or less) and adequate time existed to make the connection after the scheduled time of arrival of the Passenger’s flight. 

*Exception for separate Tickets when travelling from one Airlink flight to another Airlink flight. 

9.3.2.1

Remedy One - the Airline will carry the Passenger as soon as operationally possible on another Airlink flight on which space is available without additional charge and, where necessary, extend the period of validity of the Passenger’s Ticket to cover that carriage. In the event that the Passenger accepts this remedy the Passenger will have no further claims against the Airline whatsoever.

9.3.2.2

Remedy Two - the Airline will reroute the Passenger under comparable transport conditions to the destination and class shown on the Passenger’s Ticket without additional charge on another Airlink flight on which space is available or on the flight of another Airline with whom the Airline have an agreement with, or by other mutually agreed means. 

Should there be no reasonable flights available, the Airline will reroute the Passenger to the closest possible alternative destination in agreement with the Passenger. 

Any ground services from there will be for the Passenger’s expense (this expense should be claimed from the Passenger’s travel insurance). In the event that the Passenger accepts this remedy it is the Passenger’s responsibility to familiarise the alternative carrier’s conditions of carriage and the Passenger will have no further claims against the Airline whatsoever.

9.3.2.3

Remedy Three - the Airline will give the Passenger an involuntary full refund in accordance with Clause 11.2 (Involuntary Refunds). In the event that the Passenger accepts this remedy, the Passenger will have no further claims against the Airline whatsoever.  

9.3.3

Where a flight has been Cancelled or is subject to a long delay (excluding weather delays) exceeding two (2) hours, Passengers are entitled to receive refreshments (excluding alcohol) from the Airline. 

9.3.4

Should the Passenger, who is not departing from an airport within the vicinity of the Passenger’s home address, be forced to stay overnight due to a cancelled flight for which the Airline is responsible due to Technical and Operational constraints (and not weather related cancellations), the Airline will offer the Passenger suitable hotel accommodation for the first twenty four (24) hours, transport between the airport and the place of accommodation, dinner, breakfast and lunch if applicable in the event of a Cancelled flight over the applicable meal period. 

9.4 Weather Delays

9.4.1

It may happen that the Airline experiences uncontrollable delays caused by adverse weather conditions which are unavoidable. In such circumstances in the interest of the safety of our Passengers, a flight will either be - 

• Cancelled, 
• Return to the airport of departure, or 
• Divert to another destination. 

The Airline will not be liable to cover any Passenger expenses that arise as a result of the delay, diversion or disruption due to the weather. 

9.4.2

In the event of a delay, diversion or disruption due to adverse weather conditions, the Airline will not assume any liability for connecting flights that the Passenger may miss as a result of the delay or diversion. 
Neither will the Airline be held liable for any hotel, meals or surface transport costs arising from such delays or diversions.  The same applies to a flight having to divert back to the airport of origin. 

9.4.3

In the event of a flight being Cancelled or Diverted as a result of adverse weather conditions, the airline will offer the Passenger a choice between making an alternative reservation within the validity of the ticket subject to availability or a refund. 

The Airlink Revenue Control office needs to be contacted for Refund Authority Waivers for a full refund less the administration fee. The standard Airlink Refund administration fee of ZAR440.00 (four hundred and forty Rand) plus 15% VAT is applicable.
 

9.4.1.1

Changes in the weather (head or tail winds, heat, rain, cyclones etc.) that limits the Airline to carry fewer Passengers than planned due to the weight restrictions imposed on the aircraft.

9.4.1.2

An aircraft gauge change resulting in more Passengers being booked than the capacity available..

9.4.1.3 

A payload restriction, which are limits placed on the aircraft when flight planning taking into consideration the fuel requirements which could include uplifting extra fuel due to bad weather en-route or temperature changes or unforeseen amount of Baggage accepted for a flight.

9.4.2

In the unlikely event that the Airline is not able to provide the Passenger a seat for a flight for which the Passenger has a confirmed reservation and the Passenger has met all applicable check-in and boarding deadlines, the Airline will carry the Passenger on another Airlink flight. The Airline shall provide compensation to those Passengers denied boarding in accordance with our denied boarding policy in terms of Clause 9.5 (Denied Boarding Compensation).

9.4.3

Alternatively, the Passenger may choose to receive an Involuntary Refund in respect of the Ticket less a reasonable administrative charge prevailing at the time of the refund. The standard Airlink Refund administration fee of ZAR440.00 (four hundred and forty Rand) plus 15% VAT is applicable.


9.5 Denied boarding

9.5.1

As a matter of policy, Airlink does not oversell its flights. There are however times when the Passenger will be denied boarded on a flight in the event that the Airline experiences:

9.5.1.1

Changes in the weather (head or tail winds, heat, rain, cyclones etc.) that limits the Airline to carry fewer Passengers than planned due to the weight restrictions imposed on the aircraft.

9.5.1.2

An aircraft gauge change resulting in more Passengers being booked than the capacity available.

9.5.1.3

A payload restriction, which are limits placed on the aircraft when flight planning taking into consideration the fuel requirements which could include uplifting extra fuel due to bad weather en-route or temperature changes or unforeseen amount of Baggage accepted for a flight.

9.5.2

In the unlikely event that the Airline is not able to provide the Passenger a seat for a flight for which they have a confirmed reservation and the Passenger has met all applicable check-in and boarding deadlines, the Airline will carry the Passenger on another Airlink flight. The Airline shall provide compensation to those Passengers denied boarding in accordance with our denied boarding policy in terms of Clause 9.5 (Denied Boarding Compensation). 

9.5.3

Alternatively, the Passenger may choose to receive an Involuntary Refund in respect of the Ticket less a reasonable administrative charge prevailing at the time of the refund. The standard Airlink Refund administration fee of ZAR440.00 (four hundred and forty Rand) plus 15% VAT is applicable.

9.5.4

The Airline accepts no further liability to the Passenger for any loss or expense whatsoever. 

9.6 Denied Boarding Compensation

9.6.1

In the event that the Airline needs to deny boarding to a Passenger, the Passenger will not be denied a seat until the Airline first asks for volunteers willing to give up their confirmed seats in exchange for compensation and travel on a later specified flight. 

If there are not enough volunteers, the Airline will deny boarding to Passengers in accordance with its company policy on boarding priority. If a Passenger is involuntarily denied boarding and has met all applicable check-in and boarding deadlines, the Airline will transport the Passenger on the next available flight and a letter of compensation will be e-mailed to the Passenger from the Airlink Customer Care department which will entitle the Passenger to -

• a.    A free return Ticket with a maximum of two (2) flight coupons (including taxes) redeemable on the Airline only.
• b.    Over the same sector that the Passenger was denied - domestic or regional.
• c.    In the same cabin (business or economy class) that the Passenger was denied.
• d.    The letter of compensation is valid for one (1) year from the date thereof and is strictly non-transferable.
   

• Baggage Claim Form (PDF) 

10.1 General 

10.1.1

The Airline will not be liable for damage to Unchecked Baggage unless caused by its gross negligence or wilful misconduct which must be reasonably proved by the Passenger.

10.1.2

It is the Passenger’s responsibility to ensure that their Baggage is adequately secured, insured and that all valuable items or important documentation are removed from your Checked or Skycheck Baggage prior to the check-in procedure and/or departure.

10.1.3

The Airline will make every attempt to ensure the Passenger’s Baggage is handled with care. The Airline’s liability for loss, delay or damage to baggage is limited in terms of the applicable Convention, unless the Passenger declares a higher value for the Checked Baggage in advance and the additional charges are duly paid to the Airline.

10.1.4

The Airline will not accept liability for fragile, valuable, perishable articles or Baggage which is packed in damaged or unsuitable containers.

10.1.5

The Airline recommends that the Passenger obtain adequate travel insurance cover prior to your journey.

10.1.6

To comply with health and safety requirements the Airline cannot accept any single item of Baggage that exceeds thirty two (32) kilograms in weight, except for musical instruments, electric wheelchairs, pets as Baggage, sporting equipment, television news cameras etc. This relates only to single items and does not affect the overall Baggage allowance as shown on the Ticket.

10.1.7

The Airline will not be liable for minor damage to Checked Baggage such as scratches, dents, nicks, cuts, scuffs, stains, dirt or loss of external locks, straps, name tags and other external features attached to the Baggage resulting from normal baggage handling procedures.

10.1.8

Baggage Exceptions apply:

• a. If passage is between Johannesburg and Nosy Be, Madagascar an allowance of 20kg only will be permitted per adult Passenger. Note: Sporting Equipment can only form part of the free baggage allowance and no excess baggage will be permitted.
• b. If passage is on the Lodge-Link services i.e. between Nelspruit/Skukuza and the Sabi Sands lodges – Cessna Caravan operations, an allowance of 20Kg only will be permitted per adult Passenger provided such is packed in a soft bag. Note: no excess baggage will be permitted.

10.1.9

It is illegal to carry baggage on behalf of other Passengers and Passengers should refuse to carry in Checked or Unchecked Baggage, packages or objects received from strangers.

10.2 Free Baggage allowance

10.2.1

The Passenger may carry some Baggage free of extra charge as shown on your E-ticket Itinerary Receipt.

For further information refer to “important information” on www.flyairlink.com for the current Baggage policy.

10.2.2

Cabin baggage 

10.2.2.1

No bag shall exceed 56cm x 36cm x 23cm (total dimensions of 115cm) or weigh more than eight (8) kilograms per bag.

10.2.2.2

Handbags are considered part of a female’s wardrobe and not as hand baggage.

10.2.2.3

Slim-line laptop bags must be of a size and thickness specifically designed to carry a laptop and charger. Bags capable of carrying other items such as documents and clothes are not permitted.

10.2.3

Checked baggage 

Exception: If passage is between South Africa and Harare, Lusaka, Bulawayo and Ndola where the free baggage allowance per adult passenger will be:

Note: for connecting 4Z flights, the free baggage allowance exception shall apply if the connection is within 24 hours. 

10.2.4

The Airline reserves the right to weigh and measure the Passenger’s cabin Baggage and in the event that it exceeds the measurements above, accept it as Checked Baggage only. In the event that you do not concede to this, we will deny the Passenger and Baggage carriage on the flight and the normal fare rules of the Ticket will apply. 

10.2.5  

Individual sportspersons or sports groups will be permitted an additional 15kg sporting equipment over and above the free baggage allowance applicable to the class in which they will travel. Sporting equipment in excess of the applicable free baggage allowance will be charged in accordance with the current baggage policy.

10.3 Excess Baggage

10.3.1

The Passenger will be obliged to pay an extra charge for carriage of Baggage in excess of the Passenger’s free baggage allowance on Airlink Weight Concept as follows:

10.3.2

Due to the nature of the smaller airports which Airlink serves with medium-size aircraft, hold space may be restricted on full flights and/or in certain weather conditions. In the interest of operational safety, the Airline may opt to carry some baggage on the next available flight. There is no guarantee that the baggage is carried on the same flight.

10.3.3

An additional baggage allowance is available for purchase on most* Airlink operated flights indicated by a ‘4Z’ flight number. This additional baggage is subject to space available on the aircraft. Very important to note:

• a) Additional baggage purchases are valid per sector. Multiple Airlink sectors will require multiple purchases. 
• b) Excess baggage charges for other Airlines or connecting flights needs to be paid directly to the Airline concerned.  
• c) If you have purchased insufficient excess baggage on-line, additional excess baggage can be purchased at the applicable airport.
• d) No single item of checked baggage may exceed 32kg.
• e) On-line excess baggage purchases are restricted to checked baggage only
• f) All excess baggage purchases are non-refundable regardless of whether they are utilized or not.

*Airlink is unable to accommodate excess baggage purchases on flights to and from Nosey Be, Phinda, Arathusa and Londolozi.    

10.4 Items not allowed in passenger baggage

10.4.1

There are certain items which the Passenger must not include in Baggage. It is the Passenger’s responsibility to familiarise themselves with the applicable rules regarding Baggage. If the Passenger fails to comply with any of the applicable rules then the Passenger and the Baggage will be refused carriage and the fare rules applicable to the Ticket will apply. 

In addition the Passenger will not be entitled to claim compensation in any prohibited item wrongfully included in Baggage sustains damage or causes damage to your Baggage.
 
10.4.2

The Passenger shall not include any of the following items in your Unchecked Baggage or Checked Baggage:

10.4.2.1

Items which are likely to endanger the aircraft or persons or property on board the aircraft, such as those specified in the ICAO Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air and the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm), and in our related regulations. If the Passenger is not familiar with those rules and regulations, please consult with the Airline accordingly;

10.4.2.2

Items which are prohibited from being carried by applicable Laws, regulations, orders or governmental policy of any state to be flown from or to.  It is the Passenger’s responsibility to familiarise yourself with the applicable Laws, regulations, order or governmental policies that may be applicable;

10.4.2.3

Any drugs as defined in the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act 140 of 1992, unless the use and possession of such drugs have been acquired from a medical practitioner, dentist, veterinarian (Medical Practitioner) or pharmacist acting on the oral instruction or written prescription of a Medical Practitioner or have otherwise been acquired in a lawful manner and as permitted in terms of applicable Laws (“Permitted Drugs”). All Permitted Drugs must be kept in your hand luggage and you must have a medical letter on hand authorising you to use and possess the Permitted Drugs. Due to the public nature of airline travel and that of the business operations of the Airline, if you do not have the required medical authorisation to use and possess the Permitted Drugs, you will be prohibited from carrying such items on you person or from placing such items in Unchecked Baggage or Checked Baggage.

10.4.2.4

Items which are reasonably considered by the Airline to be unsuitable for carriage because it may be dangerous or unsafe or by reason of its weight, size, shape or character, or which are fragile or perishable having regard to, for example, the type of aircraft being used. Passengers must consult with the Airline about any concerns they may have about the suitability of the Baggage before they arrive at the airport;

10.4.2.5

Items attracting any form of duty if the Passenger is travelling as an unaccompanied child under the age of sixteen (16); or

10.4.2.6

War material. Passengers must please consult with the Airline if you have any doubt about whether any item constitutes war material.

10.4.3

The Passenger shall not include in Checked Baggage -

Fragile, Perishable or Valuable items including, but not limited to:-

• i. cameras and camera lenses;
• ii. computer equipment;
• iii. house or car keys;
• iv. jewellery;
• v. mechanical car parts;
• vi. medication or medical equipment which may be required inflight or during the Passenger’s trip or which cannot be quickly replaced if lost or damaged;
• vii. merchandise or stock (goods for sale, spare parts, trade samples etc.);
• viii. money;
• ix. personal electronic devices;
• x. precious metals;
• xi. samples;
• xii. stored data;
• xiii. valuable documents (including business documents, Passports and other identification documents, negotiable papers, securities deeds etc.);
• xiv. any other items that may be considered of value.

10.4.4

The Passenger must not include in Unchecked Baggage -

• i.   arms and ammunition;
• ii.  billiard, snooker or pool cues; 
• iii. catapults; 
• iv. corkscrews; 
• v.  darts;
• vi. duct tape 
• vii. explosives or anything containing explosives (Christmas crackers, fireworks or fire crackers) and incendiary materials; 
• viii. handcuffs
• ix.   hard sporting balls (including cricket, field, golf, hockey or billiard, snooker or pool balls); 
• x.    hypodermic needles and syringes (unless required for medical reasons and accompanied by a medical certificate confirming the medical condition necessitating carriage); 
• xi.    knitting needles; 
• xii.   knives of any kind, type, shape or size; 
• xiii.  letter openers; 
• xiv.  martial arts devices; 
• xv.   mechanical car parts.
• xvi.  metal cutlery; 
• xvii.  nail files; 
• xviii. razor blades and straight razor blades (excluding safety razors and accompanying cartridge blades); 
• xix.  real, replica or toy weapons; 
• xx.   scissors; 
• xxi.  slingshots; 
• xxii. sporting bats and clubs (including, for example, baseball and softball bats, golf clubs, cricket bats but excluding tennis, badminton and squash racquets); 
• xxiii. tradesmen’s tools

10.4.5

Prohibited Items

Certain items may not be accepted as Checked baggage, Carry-On baggage or on your person under any circumstances. The Airline does not accept any items which are considered to us to be unsuitable for carriage by Air because they are dangerous or unsafe. This includes any items which are likely to endanger the aircraft or persons or property on board the aircraft, as well as items which are prohibited by applicable laws or regulations. It is considered a criminal offence to make jokes or inappropriate comments regarding the carriage of such articles.

Such items include but are not limited to:

• Toy guns
• Disabling or electronic shock devices such as but not limited to pepper sprays and Tasers
• Fireworks
• Oxygen bottle carried onboard for personal use
• Any small vehicles powered by lithium batteries such as balance wheels, hover boards or mini Segways.

10.4.6

Any article which in the Airline’s reasonable opinion or the reasonable opinion of airport security personnel, may be used as, or adapted for use as, a weapon with the potential to cause injury or incapacitation or to represent any other security or safety threat.

10.4.7 

If an item of Unchecked Baggage becomes Checked Baggage (whether at the Passengers request or the Airline’s request), the Passenger must immediately remove from it all items which are prohibited from inclusion in Checked Baggage as disclosed above. 

10.4.8 

The Airline is not responsible for any item removed from the Passenger’s Checked Baggage or Unchecked Baggage and retained by airport security personnel. It is the Passenger’s responsibility to check the security requirements applicable to your flight and departure airport prior to travel and, if personal items are removed from the Baggage by airport security personnel, it is the Passenger’s responsibility to ensure that they obtain a receipt from the airport security personnel and make arrangements for collection of such items.

10.5 Lithium batteries

10.5.1

Lithium batteries installed in equipment are common in cameras, laptop computers, mobile phones, portable music players etc, must be switched off with measures taken to ensure they cannot be accidentally activated when placed in baggage. 

10.5.2

All spare lithium batteries shall only be permitted in Carry-on Baggage excluding SkyCheck Baggage which must be protected from short circuit.

10.5.3

Whether a lithium battery can be carried by air or not depends on its configuration and either Watt-hour (Wh) rating (for rechargeable) or Lithium Content (LC) (for non-rechargeable).

10.5.4

For devices carried in Checked Baggage and in Carry-on Baggage, measures must be taken to prevent unintentional activation – 

• a)    Separate the battery from the device
• b)    Batteries must be individually protected as to prevent short circuits.

10.5.5

For spare batteries – 

• a)    No more than twenty (20) individually protected spare batteries per person.
• b)    Batteries must be individually protected so as to prevent short circuits by placing them in original retail packaging or by otherwise insulating terminals e.g. by taping over exposed terminals or placing each battery in a separate plastic bag or protective pouch.

10.5.6

Use the following table to determine if the battery is acceptable:

To convert Amp-hours (Ah) to Watt-hours (Wh) multiply Ah x Voltage 

10.5.7 

Transportation of Portable Electronic Devices (PED) and spare batteries containing lithium batteries for personal use within, through, from and to South Africa for personal use by both crew and Passengers shall be limited to a maximum of fifteen (15) PED and maximum twenty (20) spare batteries per individual to carry onboard and in checked baggage. Quantities in excess of this shall be transported as cargo at the Passenger’s expense.

10.6 Dangerous goods

10.6.1

Dangerous Goods are items that may endanger the safety of an aircraft or persons on board the aircraft. They are also known as restricted articles and hazardous materials. Their carriage on aircraft is governed by the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority Regulations and must not be carried in Passenger or Crew Checked or Carry-on Baggage.

10.6.2

Civil Aviation Safety Regulations forbid the carriage of most items of Dangerous Goods onto an aircraft such as:

10.6.3

Dry ice can be used as a refrigerant to pack perishables in cabin baggage provided it is packaged in a ventilated container to permit the release of carbon dioxide gas.

This is limited to one kilogram (1kg) of dry ice per Passenger. 

Please note: the container must be declared upon check-in and marked with the following information:

• a)    Name of the contents being cooled
• b)    Net weight
• c)    A sticker clearly visible with the words “DRY ICE”. 

10.7 Limited release baggage

10.7.1

Limited Release baggage refers to the limitation of liability against Airlink for damage or loss sustained by any duly identified item of Checked Baggage the Passenger may wish to take with.

10.7.2

Such Baggage automatically includes all goods, bags, sporting equipment’s etc., which cannot be delivered to the Baggage distribution section by means of the usual conveyor belt. It also covers Baggage that is unsuitably packed, fragile, perishable, not permitted as Cabin Baggage and late check-in.

10.7.3

Items accepted under cover of the Limited Release procedure are transported at the Passenger’s own risk. The act of handing such duly identified pieces of Baggage over to the Airline indemnifies the Airline from subsequent claims for alleged damage or pilferage from such items or the contents. 

10.8 Hunting rifles and ammunition

10.8.1

No hand weapons (small arms, handguns i.e. pistols/revolvers used for self-defence purposes) will be accepted or may be transported on the Airline. 

10.8.2

Only Hunting Rifles, Hunting Handguns (used for the hunting of game), Hunting Shotguns and Sport Firearms will be transported as Checked baggage. A handling fee is applicable to/from all destinations operated by Airlink and payment made at time of booking.

The link below can be used to obtain the current applicable rates.   
https://www.flyairlink.com/baggage-info/animal-in-hold#412firearmsandammuni

10.8.3

If the Passenger wishes to carry rifles and shotguns as Checked Baggage it is the Passenger’s responsibility to inform yourself of, and ensure that you have obtained, all required clearances from the applicable government authorities of the country of departure and the country of destination and have notified the Airline by at least three (3) Business Days before commencement of the flight. 

10.8.4

Rifles and shotguns will not be accepted as Checked Baggage, unless approved by the Airline no less than three (3) days before the Passenger’s flight. Rifles shall be unloaded with the safety catch on, and suitably packed and accompanied by all documents legally required by the countries of departure, destination and any stopovers. 


10.8.5

Only five (5) kilograms of ammunition is allowed per Passenger. Ammunition shall never be carried in the cabin or flight deck of the aircraft. Ammunition must be packed separately from the firearm case. Securing of handgun and/or rifle cases and/or ammunition cases may not be done with cable ties/tie wraps. They shall at all times be secured by a sturdy and robust lock.

10.8.6 

The Airline will have no liability or responsibility where any item accepted under Clause 10.4.5 (Prohibited Items) and/or 10.4.6 is removed from the Passenger’s Checked Baggage and/or retained or destroyed by security personnel, government officials, airport officials, police or military officials or other Airlines involved in the Passenger’s carriage.

10.8.7 

Hunting rifles and sport firearms licensed in the category “sport” packed in a gun case or rifle bag forms part of sporting equipment where an additional 15kg free baggage allowance will be permitted. Thereafter, the excess baggage allowance will be raised as applicable including the handling fee charge.  

10.8.8 

The items below fall under the special service request as weapons and need to meet the booking procedure requirements and shall incur a handling fee charge see Clause 10.8.2:

• Axes and hatchets
• Flare pistols
• Paintball guns
• Replica guns
• Stun guns / Shocking devices
• Swords
• Spear Guns
• Toy weapons
• Starter Pistols

10.9 Right to refuse carriage of baggage

10.9.1

The Airline reserves the right to refuse to carry Baggage that contains any of the items described in Clause 10.4.3 and Clause 10.4.4 (Items Not Allowed in Passenger Baggage) regardless of whether and when the Airline is informed or discover the presence of any such items.

10.9.2

The Airline reserves the right to refuse to accept Baggage for carriage if the Airline reasonably considers that it is unsuitable for carriage, whether because of its size, shape, appearance, weight, content, character, or for safety or operational reasons, or for the comfort of other Passengers. If the Passenger has any doubt about particular items, please request guidance from the Airline or its Authorised Agents.

10.9.3

The Airline reserves the right to refuse to accept Baggage for carriage if the Airline reasonably believes that it is not properly and securely packed in suitable containers. In the event that the Passenger has any doubt about the suitability of containers used for Baggage, please request guidance from the Airline or its Authorised Agents.

10.10 Right to search, screen and x-ray

10.10.1

For reasons of safety, health and security, and to ensure that the Passenger is not carrying any items prohibited by these Conditions of Carriage in Baggage, the Airline may search, screen and x-ray the Passenger’s Baggage. 

The Airline will endeavour to search the Passenger’s Baggage while you are present, but if the Passenger is not readily available; the Airline reserves the right to search it in the Passenger’s absence. In the event that the Passenger does not allow the Airline to conduct all such searches, scans and x-rays, the Airline reserves the right to refuse carriage to the Passenger and their Baggage.
 

10.10.2

The Passenger is obliged to allow security checks of the Passenger’s Baggage by government officials, airport officials, police or military officials and other Airlines involved in the Passenger’s carriage.

10.10.3

If a search, screen or x-ray causes damage to the Passenger’s Baggage, the Airline will not be liable for the damage unless it can be reasonably proved that it was caused solely by our gross negligence or wilful misconduct.

10.10.4

Please note that the security authorities of some countries require that Checked Baggage is secured in such a manner that it can be opened without the possibility of causing damage in the absence of the Passenger. It is the Passenger’s responsibility to make themselves aware of this and comply with any such requirements.

10.11 Checked Baggage

10.11.1

Please fasten a tag, or secure a sticker or a business card on the inside as well as the outside of the Baggage with the Passenger’s name, full address and a telephone number at which the Airline can contact the Passenger.

10.11.2

When the Passenger checks-in Checked Baggage, the Airline will attach a Baggage Identification claim tag for each piece of the Passenger’s Checked Baggage to the back of the Passengers boarding pass which must be retained in the event of a claim with the Airline.

10.11.3

Checked Baggage will normally be carried on the same aircraft as the Passenger but it may be necessary for it to be carried on another aircraft on a different flight (for example, for safety, health, security, operational reasons or due to the size or weight of the Checked Baggage or non-compliance with these Conditions of Carriage). 

10.11.4

In the event that the Airline carries the Passenger’s Checked Baggage on another flight, the Airline will endeavour to deliver it (provided it wasn’t excess, or misconnection due to insufficient connecting time for transfer of Baggage or due to insufficient connecting time) to the physical address the Passenger has supplied, provided that the address is within the local municipal boundaries of the airport of destination, unless the Law at the place of collection requires the Passenger to be present at the airport of arrival for customs clearance or the reason for carriage on another aircraft related to the size or weight of the Checked Baggage or non-compliance with these Conditions of Carriage. 

In the event that the address falls outside of the local municipal boundary of the airport of destination, the Passenger will be obliged to collect the Checked Baggage from the airport and will have no further claims against the Airline whatsoever.


10.11.5

Unless the Airline decides in its reasonable discretion that the Passenger’s Checked Baggage will not be carried on the same flight as the Passenger, the Airline will not carry the Checked Baggage if the Passenger fails to board the aircraft on which it is loaded or, having boarded, or the Passenger leaves the aircraft before takeoff or at a point of transit, without re-boarding.

10.11.6

The Airline will only carry the Passenger’s excess Baggage on the same flight as the Passenger if there is suitable space available on the aircraft and the Passenger has paid the applicable extra charge for carriage of Baggage in excess of the free Baggage allowance. At no time is carriage for excess Baggage guaranteed.

10.11.7

For handling purposes, no suitcase may weigh more than thirty-two (32) kilograms. Baggage weighing more than thirty two (32) kilograms will not be accepted for carriage unless the additional weight is carried in a separate bag or suitable container. 

10.12 Unchecked Baggage

10.12.1

Each Passenger (except infants not occupying a seat) is entitled to carry one (1) bag in the cabin with total dimensions of one hundred and fifteen (115) centimeters and eight (8) kilogram weight, measuring a maximum of fifty two (52) by forty (40) by twenty three (23) centimetres . All Unchecked Baggage must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of the Passenger or inside the overhead storage compartments in the cabin of the aircraft. No baggage may be placed on the seat.

10.12.2

In the event that the Passengers Unchecked Baggage is too big to be stored in this way Clause 10.12.1, or is of excessive weight or considered unsafe for any reason, the Passenger must check it in for carriage as Checked Baggage and pay any excess Baggage charge in the event that the free Baggage allowance has already been used up by other Checked Baggage.


10.13 Collection and delivery of checked baggage

10.13.1

Unless Clause 10.11.3 requires the Airline to deliver the Checked Baggage to the Passenger, the Passenger must collect their Checked Baggage as soon as it is made available at the destination or Stopover. 

If the Passenger does not collect it within a reasonable time, the Airline reserves the right to charge the Passenger a storage fee.In the event that the Passenger’s Checked Baggage remains unclaimed for three (3) months after it is made available at the Passenger’s destination or Stopover, the Airline reserves the right to dispose of it and retain any proceeds of the disposal for our benefit without notice or liability to the Passenger.

10.13.2

Only the person holding the Baggage Identification Tag may claim a piece of Checked Baggage. The Airline accepts no responsibility for checking the identity or authority of the person holding the Baggage Identification Tag or for checking that such person has a right to collection.

10.13.3

In the event that the person claiming a piece of Checked Baggage cannot produce the required Baggage Identification Tag, that person must prove that the Baggage is his or hers before the Airline will allow collection of the Checked Baggage. The Airline accepts no responsibility for making anything other than limited enquiries of the person claiming the Baggage when assessing the right to collection. 

10.14 Animals - General

10.14.1

Domestic Airlink Flights: the Airline will only accept domestic animals that are limited to small and medium sized cats, dogs and small household birds as Checked Baggage with a maximum crate weight of 32kg including the animal. 

10.14.2

Regional Airlink flights: All other livestock and animals on Regional flights shall only be transported as manifested cargo. For further information call Airlink Cargo +27 10 880 3634/5.      

10.14.3

The Airline will not accept a domestic animal for carriage unless the Passenger has applied for, and obtained, its prior approval and the Passenger meets all of the following conditions and our applicable Regulations -

Passengers travelling with domestic pets must contact the Airlink Revenue Control office +27 11 4517300 or +27 11 4517350 to request permission for the domestic pet to travel. This can be booked from Monday to Friday 07h30 – 17h00 and must be done no later than three (3) Business Days prior to departure. For flights over a weekend, as well as Monday, the cut-off for the necessary pet arrangements must be no later than 15h00 on the Friday prior to departure. 


10.14.4

Passengers must allow extra time beyond the required check-in time for the flight to allow enough time to process the pet. 

10.14.5

The domestic animal must be properly crated by the Passenger in a suitable container for carriage in the hold of an aircraft in accordance with all applicable legal requirements and the following conditions have been adhered to - 

• a) Be leak and escape proof.
• b) Be properly ventilated but not allow any part of the animal from protruding outside of the container.
• c) Provide enough room for the animal to freely stand, lie down and turn around.
• d) Contain absorbent material or litter.
• e) Have functional handles on the kennel's exterior to prevent tilting and any direct contact with the animals.
• f) Be closed securely, but not locked.
• g) Have labels with the words "Live Animal" on the top and on at least one side supplied by the Airline.
• h) Be made of metal, wood, or a hard plastic/composite.
• i) Have necessary supplies of food and water. 

10.14.6

The domestic cat or dog must be accompanied by, and the Airline is shown upon check-in the following:

• a) Valid Veterinary health booklet.  
• b) Rabies certificate. Rabies inoculations are compulsory nationwide and must be administered yearly in accordance with IATA regulations.   
• c) Inoculation for cats and dogs above the age of 3 months must be inoculated against Rabies, this should be done annually. There is a waiting period or 7 days (if the animal is older than 1 year) or 14 days (for 1st time inoculation or if they are between 3 and 12 months) after their rabies inoculation, prior to the dog or cat travelling. 

This excludes small household birds no vaccines within the borders of South Africa.

10.14.7

Animals do not form part of the free baggage allowance and the Passenger is required to pay the charges at the airport upon check in which is applicable to containers with the animal inside, unless the animal is a Service dog Clause 6.10 or an Emotional Support dog Clause 6.11.

10.14.8

The Airline will not be responsible for the loss, injury, sickness or death unless caused solely by its gross negligence and/or wilful misconduct which must be reasonably proved by the Passenger.

10.14.9

In the event that an animal is carried by the Airline without being accompanied by all the certificates and permits required, the Airline will have no liability to the Passenger for any loss the Passenger may suffer and the Passenger will pay or reimburse the Airline (upon request) for any fines, costs, losses or liabilities imposed on or incurred by us as a result of the absence of one or more required certificates or permits.

10.14.10

The Airline reserves the right to deny carriage to domestic animals in its reasonable discretion and does not guarantee that it will be able to provide carriage to domestic animals on all the flights that it operates.

10.14.11

No puppy or kitten may be transported via air under 8 weeks of age. When an animal is flown of an age between 8 and 16 weeks, whether the animal was vaccinated or not, the animal must be accompanied with proof of the mother’s vaccination. For the mother's vaccination to be considered valid she must have received her vaccination at least 30 days but no longer than 12 months prior to giving birth to the specific animal.

10.14.12

According to the Animal Diseases Act 35 of 1984 - control measure against Rabies - "all dogs and cats in the Republic shall be immunised with an efficient remedy by an officer, veterinarian or authorised person at the age of three months followed by a second vaccination within 12 months, at least 30 days after the first vaccination and thereafter every three years. Dogs and cats younger than three months may be vaccinated provided that they are again vaccinated at the age of three months, followed by a third vaccination within 12 months and thereafter every three years." 

In order to adhere to the legislation, the following is required when cat(s) and or dog(s) are transported on our domestic flights:

• An inoculation booklet confirming that the cat(s) and or dog(s) are 8 weeks and older.
• A valid proof of vaccination against Rabies for cats and dogs of 3 months and older.
• The proof of Rabies vaccination may not be older than 3 years from the last Rabies vaccination received.

10.15 Skycheck Baggage

10.15.1

The Airline provides a special SkyCheck facility for hand-luggage weighing no more than eight (8) kilograms in the interests of in-flight comfort and speedy boarding and departure procedures. When the Passenger boards one of the Airline’s flights, simply place any hand-luggage that you won’t need during the flight on the Skycheck cart next to the boarding steps. The hand-luggage will be waiting for the Passenger upon disembarkation from the aircraft at the destination.   

10.15.2

It is the Passenger’s responsibility to ensure that the Baggage placed on the SkyCheck cart is adequately secured and insured. The Passenger must ensure that all the valuable items are removed from the hand Baggage prior to placing it on the Skycheck cart.  The Airline will not be liable for damages or losses in respect of valuable, fragile or perishable items contained in Baggage placed on the Skycheck cart.

10.16 Special Baggage Items

10.16.1

Photographic Equipment

• a) Passengers traveling with photographic equipment pertaining to lenses and cameras will be allowed to carry the equipment on board as long as the allowance is within the current hand baggage regulations - total dimensions 115cm and maximum 8kg.
• b) Any other photographic equipment i.e. lighting equipment, tripods, props etc. must be packed in cases or boxes as Checked Baggage.
• c) Should the weight and dimensions exceed the allocated 8kg hand luggage allowance, an excess charge will be charged and the Passenger will be allowed to carry the equipment pertaining to lenses and cameras to the aircraft.     The bag will be tagged with a SkyCheck tag and will be placed on the SkyCheck facility.
• d) All Passengers travelling with Airlink must advise the Airline at least three (3) Business days prior to departure that they will have photographic equipment.

10.16.2

Musical Instruments 

Musical instruments, e.g. cello, harp, guitar etc. are not permitted in the aircraft cabin and accepted only as Checked Baggage for placement in the hold compartment. This type of baggage shall have a “Fragile” sticker attached and the Passenger shall be required to sign a Limited Release tag. Advance arrangements must be made no later than three (3) Business days prior to departure. The musical instrument must be in its hard-shell case for appropriate protection.

10.17 Delayed baggage

10.17.1

Notify the baggage service agent prior to leaving the airport. A missing bag file will be opened in the baggage tracing system to assist with the recovery of your bag and you will be given a file reference number. 

10.17.2

A twenty one (21) day tracing period is required for us to locate the baggage before a final claim process can commence. Should the bag be located, a baggage service agent will contact you to arrange its return. 

10.17.3

When International or Domestic Checked baggage is delayed, the baggage service agent may authorise interim expenses to purchase essential items such as toiletries necessary for immediate use only to Passengers who do not reside in the city where the delay of the baggage occurred.

This "first need" expense can be up to an allowance of three hundred and fifty South African Rand (ZAR350) per day after twelve (12) hours until the Passenger is in possession of the Checked Baggage and limited to five (5) days. The Passenger needs to purchase the “first need” items and receipts for payout are required and will be deducted from the final claim settlement if the Baggage is not located.

To obtain a reimbursement of expenses, submit the Airlink Baggage Claim form with the supporting documentation as listed in the claim form within thirty (30) days of authorisation on e-mail to [email protected] 


10.18 Missing baggage

10.18.1

Certain events, such as adverse weather conditions, technical problems with baggage handling or a baggage label being torn off, can potentially lead to baggage not arriving at the destination airport at the same time as the Passenger. Airlink will take all necessary measures to reunite you with your baggage as quickly as possible.

10.18.2

Should a Passenger be unable to find one or more of their bags on arrival, this should be reported immediately to the local baggage service desk so that an official report can be filed. Airlink will require exact details of the contents of your baggage, the Passenger’s name, address, contact details and the description of your baggage. Airlink will issue a “Property Irregularity Report PIR” document together with a reference number. The Passenger must keep the PIR to track their request.

10.18.3

Airlink will search for the missing baggage with the help of a worldwide baggage tracing system to which several hundred Airlines are affiliated. The baggage service agent will be able to tell the Passenger of any progress in tracing the bags. The telephone number will be on the written confirmation of the lost baggage report together with a reference number (e.g. MQP4Z12345) which will be required for identification. As soon as your baggage is located, Airlink will contact the Passenger to arrange its return.

10.18.4

Please take particular note to Clause 10.1 (Baggage general) regarding:

• a. Adequate travel insurance,
• b. Fragile, Perishable and Valuable items,

10.19 Damaged baggage

The Airline will not be liable for damage to Unchecked Baggage unless caused by our gross negligence or wilful misconduct which must be reasonably proved by the Passenger. Damages caused to any Checked Baggage which exceeds the applicable free baggage allowance shall not be liable to compensation.   

10.19.2

Damage to Checked Baggage should be reported to and viewed by the baggage service agent immediately after the arrival of your flight where possible. 

10.19.3

The Airline will not accept liability for damage to Baggage resulting from inherent defect, quality or vice of the Baggage. Likewise the Airline will not be liable for fair wear and tear of Baggage resulting from the usual and normal rigours of transportation by air.

10.19.4

The Airline will not be liable for damage to any item included in the Passenger’s Baggage which the Passenger is prohibited from including in terms of Clause 10.4 (Items Not Allowed In Passenger Baggage).

10.19.5

Damaged Baggage Process: 

• a) The damaged baggage must be forwarded to Airlink Baggage Claims office at OR Tambo airport in Johannesburg. Take the damaged bag to your arrival airport and they will forward the damaged baggage on your behalf.
• b) The Airlink Baggage Claims supervisor will assess the extent of the damage for repair or possible replacement.
• c) The maximum replacement value will be one thousand, five hundred South African Rand (ZAR1 500.00).
• d) The onus lies with the Passenger to collect the bag after the repair work has been completed.

10.19.6

Where carriage of the Passenger’s Baggage is performed by successive IATA registered Airlines and either the Warsaw Convention or the Montreal Convention applies to that carriage, the Passenger is entitled to make a claim against the Airline if the Airline is the last Airline in that carriage, unless the Airline can prove that the damage occurred with a previous carrier. 

10.20 Time limit for baggage claims

10.20.1

In the event that the Passenger receives Checked Baggage without registering a complaint if applicable, the absence of such a complaint will be sufficient evidence that the Checked Baggage was received in good condition unless the Passenger proves to the contrary. 

10.20.2

In the event that Passenger claims compensation from the Airline for mishandled Checked Baggage, the Passenger must notify the Airline as follows -

10.20.2.1

In the event Checked Baggage is damaged, the Passenger must report the damage in writing to the Airline upon arrival.

10.20.2.2

In the event items are missing from Checked Baggage, the Passenger must report this with the Airline in writing within seven (7) Days from the date of arrival at your destination.

10.20.2.3

In the event that lost Checked Baggage is not found within twenty one (21) Days from receipt of the written complaint, the Airline will compensate the Passenger according to the applicable international and national regulations and standards as described in this Conditions of Carriage. 

10.21

Processing of baggage claims for damage, pilferage, delayed and total loss.

10.21.1

An Airlink Passenger property claim form must be completed in English and sent back to our Baggage Claims department. Any missing forms or unfurnished information will delay the claim process. 

The claim assessment takes up to twenty (20) Business days to process from date the completed claim form and all supporting documentation has been received by Airlink.

The final claim payment conversion rate varies according to currency fluctuation taken on the day of travel not payment. 

10.21.2 

The Passenger is advised to purchase insurance to cover instances where the actual value or replacement cost of the Baggage may exceed the Airline’s liability limitation.

10.21.3

All claims in regards to missing, delayed or damage to Checked Baggage must be submitted in writing to:
Fax: +27 11 3901651; or
E-mail: [email protected]

10.21.4

The Airlink Passenger property claim form must have the following documents accompany it:

• a) Copy of the boarding pass
• b) Copy of the E-ticket Itinerary Receipt
• c) Copy of printed receipts for first need items (if applicable)
• d) Copy of baggage claim tags
• e) Banking details – Bank Accounts outside of South Africa

An official letter (the Airline will not be liable for any charges related to the official letter) from the bank confirming the banking details as follows:

• Full bank name
• Full physical address of bank
• Sort/ swift code
• Branch code
• IBAN code
• Type of account
• Account number
• Name of account holder (person submitting claim)

A penalty of four hundred South African Rand (R400.00) will be charged if the Forex is returned due to incorrect banking details.

NOTE: International payments can take up to thirty (30) days.

f) Banking details – Bank Accounts inside of South Africa

An official letter from the bank confirming the banking details as follows:

• Full name of bank
• Branch code
• Type of account
• Account number
• Name of account holder (person submitting the claim)

Note: no payment will be made on behalf of a person. Only the Passenger who travelled may submit a claim with their banking details unless the Passenger is a minor.

10.21.5

International travel 

The compensation for Baggage claims shall be limited for International carriage, and in respect of which the Montreal Convention applies, to the national currency equivalent of one thousand one hundred and thirty one (1,131) Special Drawing Rights (SDR’s) as follows:  

• a)    All claims submitted must be substantiated by a sworn affidavit in the presence of a Commissioner of Oaths (the Airline will not be liable for any charges related to the affidavit), 
• b)    Authenticated, printed, documentary proof of purchase for the items claimed (original receipts) indicating the date of purchase and price of purchase.  
• c)    An annual depreciation rate of 10% will be deducted from the purchase of the items claimed.

10.21.6 

If the weight of the Passenger's Checked Baggage is not recorded on the Baggage claim tag, the Airlink will assume that it is not more than the free Baggage allowance for the class of carriage concerned.

Domestic travel 

10.21.6.1

The compensation for Baggage claims shall be limited for Domestic travel within the borders of the Republic of South Africa, to 20 US Dollars per kilogram up to the maximum of the applicable free baggage allowance permitted for Checked Baggage. 

10.21.6.2

In the event that Airlink Excess baggage charges were paid for missing baggage, we will reimburse the excess amount on presentation of a valid Airline payment receipt. 

10.21.6.3

In the event that pilferage has occurred, the Passenger will be compensated on the assessed weight of the missing items calculated using the IATA Table of Weights, excluding items that are Fragile, Perishable or Valuable. Airlink does not accept liability for any items in Checked Baggage that are prohibited as per Clause 10.4.3

10.21.7

In the event of total of loss of Checked Baggage that the weight is not recorded on the Baggage claim tag, the Airline will assume that it is not more than the free Baggage allowance for the class of carriage for which the Passenger was booked.

11.1 General

11.1.1

Airlink SA8 tickets issued on South African Airways ticket stock range beginning with 083. The monies paid for 083 tickets lies with South African Airways. In the event of a refund (where applicable as per the fare rule) on 083 ticket stock is processed and settled by South African Airways.

Refund requests to be submitted to [email protected] see Clause 11.1.7

The standard South African Airways Refund administration fee of ZAR287.50 inclusive of 15% VAT will be charged.

11.1.2

Airlink 4Z tickets issued on ticket stock range beginning with 749 shall in the event of a refund (where applicable as per the fare rule) is processed and settled directly by Airlink.

Refund requests to be submitted to [email protected] see Clause 11.1.7.

The standard Airlink Refund administration fee of ZAR440.00 plus 15% VAT will be charged. Refer to Annex. A of the Airlink Refund Policy for the respective market related refund administration fees. 
https://www.flyairlink.com/important-info/refund-policy

11.1.3

In the event that a refund is due to the Passenger, the Airline for the applicable ticket stock will refund the fare paid for a refundable ticket, or any unused part of it, together with applicable taxes, fees, charges in accordance with the applicable fare rules. On a non-refundable ticket, only the applicable taxes will be refundable. The DU and OC fees on an E-ticket are non-refundable. Effective 01 May 2020, the YQ tax refund is applicable as per the fare rule.

11.1.4

A refund will only be made to the person who has paid for the ticket, provided that the Airline for the applicable ticket stock is given proof of identification and payment.

11.1.5

The validity of a travel document for refund purposes is twenty-four (24) months from date of original issue. Travel documents that are older that (24) months will not be refunded.

11.1.6

All on-line refund requests made to the airline in line with Clause 11.3 (Voluntary Refunds), the processing time may take up to four (4) months from date of submission to complete. 

11.1.7

Please ensure your reservation has been cancelled before requesting a refund and remember to provide the passenger’s name, the billing address, the credit card or debit card number or other form of payment used for purchase, ticket number(s), copy of RSA ID or Passport, banking details, booking reference, contact numbers, the date of travel and reason for refund in the correspondence.

11.1.8

Should there be no cancellation or penalty fee as per the applicable fare rule, then the standard Airlink Refund administration fee of ZAR440.00 plus 15% VAT will be charged. This will be either the cancellation penalty fee or the administration fee, never both. Refer to Annex. A of the Airlink Refund Policy for the respective market related refund administration fees. 
https://www.flyairlink.com/important-info/refund-policy

11.1.9

Any SA8/083 or 4Z/749 ticket purchased through a travel agent needing a refund must be requested and processed by the same travel agent subject to the applicable fare rules.

11.2 Involuntary refunds

11.2.1

Fare refunds will be calculated according to Clause 11.2.1.1 and 11.2.1.2 if the Airline:

• Cancels a flight,
• Fail to operate a flight reasonably according to schedule,
• Fail to carry the Passenger on a flight for which they have a confirmed reservation and have met the applicable check-in and boarding deadlines,
• The Passenger has not been refused carriage for reasons permitted by these Conditions of Carriage.
• Fails to stop at the Passenger’s destination or Stopover, or
• Causes the Passenger to miss a connecting flight in circumstances where the Passenger holds a confirmed reservation and adequate time existed to make the connection between the originally scheduled time of arrival of the Passenger’s flight and the departure time of the connecting flight.

11.2.1.1

In the situations described in Clause 11.2.1, the refund will be equal to an amount equal to the fare paid, including all applicable taxes, fees and charges if no portion of the Ticket has been used; or

11.2.1.2

If a portion of the Ticket has been used, an amount equal to the difference between the fares paid, including all applicable taxes, fees and charges and the fare for travel between the points for which the Passenger has used the Ticket.

11.2.2

The Airline will pay the Passenger a refund in terms of Clause 11.2.1 if the Airline refuses the Passenger carriage for any of the reasons set out in this Clause.

Please see Clause 8.2 (Reimbursement of Costs) which permits the Airline to use the value of any unused carriage on the Passenger’s Ticket to reimburse costs payable by the Passenger to the Airline.

11.2.3

The Airline will pay the Passenger a refund in terms of Clause 11.2.1 if the Airline terminates the Passenger’s carriage for any of the reasons set out in Clause 12 (Conduct Aboard Aircraft) before it is completed, except that the Passenger will not be entitled to any refund for the flight during which the unacceptable behaviour occurred.

Apart from this, the Airline will have no liability to the Passenger for any loss or expense whatsoever. See Clause 11.4 (Right to Refuse Refunds) which reserves the Airline’s right to use the value of any unused carriage on the Passenger’s Ticket to reimburse costs payable by the Passenger to the Airline due to the unacceptable behaviour aboard an aircraft.

11.2.4

The Airlink Revenue Control office needs to be contacted for Refund Authority Waivers for a full refund less the administration fee for Airlink Cancelled flights, Airlink Technical flights, Medical or Death related instances for 4Z/749 refunds.

11.3 Voluntary refunds

11.3.1

In the event that a refund of the fare for the Passenger’s Ticket is due for reasons other than those set out in Clause 11.2 (Involuntary Refunds) the refund will be calculated as follows –

11.3.1.1

an amount equal to the fare paid, including all applicable taxes, fees and charges, less any applicable cancellation fees if no portion of the Ticket has been used, less a reasonable administration fee prevailing at the time of the refund, if the Passenger’s Ticket is subject to restrictions; or

11.3.1.2

if a portion of the Ticket has been used, an amount equal to the difference between the fare paid, including all applicable taxes, fees and charges and the fare, including all applicable taxes, fees and charges for travel between the points for which the Ticket has been used, less any applicable cancellation fees, less a reasonable administration fee prevailing at the time of the refund, if the Passenger’s Ticket is subject to restrictions.

The standard Airlink Refund administration fee of ZAR440.00 plus 15% VAT will be charged. Refer to Annex. A of the Airlink Refund Policy for the respective market related refund administration fees. 
https://www.flyairlink.com/important-info/refund-policy

11.4 Right to Refuse Refund

11.4.1

The Airline reserves the right not to refund a Ticket if an application for the refund is made more than one (1) year from the date of issue of the original Ticket.

11.4.2

The Airline reserves the right not to refund a Ticket for any flight on which:

• a) the Passenger has been refused carriage (for any of the reasons set out in Clause 8.1) (Right to Refuse Carriage)
• b) from which the Passenger has been removed (for any of the reasons set out in Clause 12) (Conduct Aboard Aircraft)
• c) for Force Majeure events listed under Definitions in Clause 1.

11.5 Refund Currency

The Airline will remit refunds in the same form and currency that was used to pay for the Passenger’s Ticket.

11.6 By whom ticket refundable

The Airline will pay a voluntary refund on a Ticket only if the Airline or its Authorised Agents issued the Ticket.

11.7 Waiver Requests for Vouluntary Refunds

Waivers of cancellation fees or administration fees on voluntary refunds must be referred to Airlink Head Office Refunds department. The Consumer Protection Act (CPA) directive in South Africa which gives consumers the right to receive a full refund in case or illness or death. The following is required for such refund:

Illness: The hospital account or admission form must be obtained. Please note that the waiver is for the cancellation fee only, the refund administration fee is still applicable. Standard rules will apply where no hospital account or admission form is received to substantiate illness. 

Death: A death certificate must be obtained. The Waiver is applicable to the death of an immediate family member only.    

Note: Death and illness must coincide with the E-ticket dates of travel.

11.8 Medical Certificates for Refunds

The waiver of the cancellation fee will only be considered for illness of a passenger or immediate family member based on the fare rules. Please note that the refund admin fee is still applicable.

It is recommended that the passenger be advised and encouraged to take out a cancellation and curtailment insurance cover. The insurance cover will protect and compensate for all those eventualities or penalties that will be levied to those airfares they have chosen to purchase.

Immediate Family is defined and limited to spouse, children (including adopted children), parents, brothers, sisters, grandparents, grandchildren, father-in-law, mothers-in-law, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law and daughters-in-law. Blood relations to family members will need to be proved upon request and all decisions are subject to Airlink’s discretion. Refunds due to medical reasons with a medical certificate are not guaranteed.   
 

12.1 General

At all times during the Passenger’s carriage, the Passenger has a duty to behave in a manner which is not likely to:

12.1.1

contravene the Laws of any country and/or state which has jurisdiction over the aircraft;

12.1.2

endanger, threaten (whether by hoax threats or otherwise), injure or prejudice any person or property or create the risk or threat of injury or damage to health;

12.1.3

cause distress to, or be complained of as materially objectionable to, other persons aboard the aircraft, such conduct includes but are not limited to harassment, molestation, sexual assault, physical or verbal abuse;

12.1.4

cause, or be likely to cause, loss of or damage to the Airline’s property or that of other persons aboard the aircraft;

12.1.5

obstruct, hinder or interfere with the crew in the performance of their duties;

12.1.6

contravene any instruction or direction of the crew or the Airline (whether oral or by written notice) lawfully issued for the purpose of the safety or security of the aircraft and of persons or property and/or the comfort or convenience of Passengers, including but not limited to instructions concerning safety, security, seating, seat belts, smoking, consumption of alcohol or use of drugs, use of electronic equipment including, but not limited to, cellular telephones, laptop computers, PDAs, portable recorders, portable radios, compact disks, DVD and MP3 players, electronic games or transmitting devices (for example, radio controlled toys and two-way radios).

12.2 On board alcohol

The Passenger is not allowed to consume alcohol aboard an aircraft (whether purchased as duty free from the Airline or someone else or otherwise obtained) unless it has been served by the Airline. The Airline has the right, at any time for any reason, to refuse to serve alcohol or to withdraw alcohol which has been served to any Passenger in the interest of safety and the comfort of our Passengers.

12.3 Smoking policy

12.3.1

Smoking is not permitted on any of Airlink’s flights. The use of electronic, simulated smoking materials including cigarettes, pipes and cigars is prohibited.

12.3.2

No Passenger or crew may pack electronic cigarettes (e-cigarette) or other battery-operated electronic smoking devices (Vape, Twisp or similar) in the Checked Baggage. They are only permitted in Cabin baggage and not permitted to recharge or use the device while in the aircraft.

12.3.3

In the event the cabin baggage is removed and placed as SkyCheck baggage, Passengers shall remove all Lithium Ion batteries from the cabin baggage and carry this into the cabin of the aircraft.

12.3.4

No Passenger or crew may carry on his or her person or pack any drugs as defined in the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act 140 of 1992 in the Checked Baggage and may only carry such items on his or her person or pack such items in Unchecked Baggage, if the use and possession of such drugs has been acquired from a medical practitioner, dentist, veterinarian (Medical Practitioner) or pharmacist acting on the oral instruction or written prescription of a Medical Practitioner or have otherwise been acquired in a lawful manner and as permitted in terms of applicable Laws (Permitted Drugs).

All Permitted Drugs must be kept in your hand luggage and you must have a medical letter on hand authorising you to use and possess the Permitted Drugs. Due to the public nature of airline travel and that of the business operations of the Airline, if you do not have the required medical authorisation to use and possess the Permitted Drugs, you will be prohibited from carrying such items on you person or from placing such items in Unchecked Baggage or Checked Baggage.

12.4 Breach of duty

12.4.1

If the Airline reasonably believes that the Passenger has failed to fully observe all of the duties placed on the Passenger by Clause 12.1, Clause 12.2 and Clause 12.3 then:-

The Airline reserves the right to report the matter to any relevant police or other enforcement authority; and

12.4.2

The Airline reserves the right to take such measures as the Airline considers necessary to prevent the continuation or repetition of the offending conduct including but not limited to physical restraint and/or removal of the Passenger from the aircraft and/or refusal to carry the Passenger after a Stopover (whether made for the purpose of removing the Passenger from the aircraft or otherwise); and

12.4.3

The Airline reserves the right to refuse to carry the Passenger at any time in the future; and

12.4.4

The Passenger will reimburse the Airline for any costs the Airline incurs in order to:

12.4.4.1

repair or replace property lost, damaged or destroyed by the Passenger;

12.4.4.2

compensate any Passenger or crew member affected by the Passenger actions; and

12.4.4.3

divert the aircraft to a destination other than the destination as indicated on the Ticket for the purpose of removing the Passenger from the aircraft.

The Airline reserves the right to use the value of any unused carriage on the Passenger’s Ticket or any of the funds in its possession to pay sums due to the Airline from the Passenger in regards to this Clause.

13.1

In the event that the Airline arranges for another company to provide the Passenger with surface carriage or other services (for example, ground transfer, hotel reservation or accommodation or car rental) or if the Airline issues the Passenger with a Ticket or voucher relating to any such surface carriage or other services for the Passenger’s convenience, the Airline is acting only as the Passengers agent in making those arrangements or issuing the Ticket or voucher. The terms and conditions of the companies providing those services will apply to the Passenger and the Airline does not guarantee the quality and/or safety of such service on those companies’ behalf.

13.2

The Airline will have no liability to the Passenger regarding any surface carriage or other services the Airline may arrange for the Passenger in its capacity as the agent in making those arrangements which are to be provided by another company unless caused solely by the Airline’s gross negligence.

The Passenger will have the right to refuse the use of such third party services and the Airline will not accept any liability as a result of the Passenger’s decision to do so.

14.1 General

14.1.1

The Passenger is responsible for obtaining and holding all of the required travel documents the Passenger needs for entry into any country the Passenger is visiting (even as a transit Passenger).

All passports must be in good condition (not damaged, torn, have loose pages or defaced). Some countries require the passport to be valid for three (3) or six (6) months beyond the date of return and require one (1) or more Visa unused (blank) pages available in the passport to travel. This does not include pages reserved for Endorsements, Amendments or Observations.

Airlink is obligated by the Department of Home Affairs to ensure passengers are properly documented and the airline document check is normally limited to a visual examination to identify possible fraud and to ensure that a visa or other travel entitlement is present and valid in the passport if required. To assist Airlink, we make use of the IATA software solution, Timatic, which provides travel documentation advise to airlines. 

The final decision lies solely with immigration at the country of departure and Airlink reserves the right to refuse carriage if passengers do not comply with these requirements or if the travel documents do not appear in order. Airlink will not be liable if, in good faith, we are of the opinion that in our view decisive regulations do not allow your carriage, which we therefore refuse. Furthermore, Airlink will not be liable for damages that arise from non-compliance with formalities if passengers were accepted for carriage despite their non-compliance.   

Passengers can check their own travel status in the IATA travel centre directly:
 https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/passport-visa-health-travel-document-requirements.htm 
 

14.1.2

The Passenger is obliged to obey all Laws, regulations, orders, and other requirements of all countries the Passenger will exit, enter, or through which the Passenger will transit during the Passengers journey.

The granting of a visa does not guarantee that the holder will be permitted to enter the country concerned since permission to land is at the discretion of the immigration officials of a country.

14.1.3

For details of the required travel documents the Passenger is advised to contact the embassy, consulate or other relevant body of all relevant countries prior to making the reservation.

If the Passenger is not travelling immediately, the Airline advises the Passenger to contact the same bodies again before the Passenger commences travel to ensure that the requirements which are applicable to the Passenger has not changed and that the Passenger’s travel documents remain valid for all flights, destinations and planned Stopovers.

14.1.4

At the Airline’s request at any time before or during carriage, the Passenger is obliged to:

• a. present all Passports, Visas, Health Certificates and other Travel Documents needed for the journey;
• b. permit the Airline to take photocopies of those documents or hand the documents to a member of its flight crew aboard the Passenger aircraft for safe keeping during a flight.

14.1.5

The Airline will not be liable to the Passenger if the Passenger does not have all Passports, Visas, Health certificates and other Travel Documents needed for the journey or if any of those documents are out of date or if the Passenger has not obeyed all Laws, regulations, orders, and other requirements of all countries the Passenger will exit, enter, or through which the Passenger will transit during their journey.

14.1.6

The Airline will not accept the Passenger or the Passenger’s Baggage for carriage if the Passenger’s Visas or travel documents do not appear to be in order or if the Passenger has not complied with the other requirements of Clause 14.1.

14.1.7

The Airline has the right to refuse carriage to the Passenger even if the Passenger has started or completed part of the carriage before the Airline has reasonable cause to believe (whether as a result of operation of Clause 14.1.4 or otherwise) that the Passenger has not complied with Clause 14.1.

14.2 Refusal of entry

If the Passenger is refused entry to a country (including a country the Passenger transits through while en route to the destination), the Passenger will be obliged to reimburse the Airline in full on request for any fine, penalty or charge assessed against the Airline by the government concerned (including detention costs) as well as the fare for transporting the Passenger and an escort if required, from that country.

The Airline will not refund to the Passenger the fare paid for carriage to the airport where the Passenger was refused entry.

14.3 Passenger responsibility for fines, detention costs and other charges

At the Airline’s request, the Passenger will be obliged to reimburse the Airline in full for the amount of any fine, penalty, detention costs, deportation or removal expenses, escorting charges (if any), cost of Ticket(s) issued for the Passenger, or any other expenditure the Airline incurs because the Passenger has failed to comply with any Laws, regulations, orders or other travel requirements of the country the Passenger has travelled to or because the Passenger has failed to produce the required travel documents on seeking entry to a country or the Passenger has been refused admission into the country.

The Airline reserves the right to use the value of any unused carriage on the Ticket or any of the funds in its possession to pay sums due to the Airline from the Passenger in terms of this Clause.

14.4 Return of confiscated travel documents

The Airline will not be liable to the Passenger for the return of any of the travel documents, identification documents or Tickets confiscated by a governmental or other authority.

14.5 Custom inspection

If required, the Passenger shall attend inspection of their Baggage by customs or other government officials. The Airline will not be liable to the Passenger for damage suffered by the Passenger in the course of such inspection or as a result of the Passenger’s failure to attend such inspection.

14.6 Security inspection

The Passenger shall be obliged to allow all such security checks, searches and scans of your person by the Airline, the Airline’s handling agents, government officials, airport officials, police or military officials and other Airlines involved in their carriage.

If the Passenger does not allow all such security checks, searches and scans to be conducted, the Airline will refuse to carry the Passenger and the Passenger’s Baggage and the applicable fare rules of the Ticket will apply. See Clause 10.10 (Right To Search, Screen And X-ray) for security checks on Baggage.

Where the Passengers carriage is to be performed by the Airline and other Airlines in succession under one Ticket, or a conjunction Ticket, it is likely to be regarded as a single operation for the purposes of the Warsaw Convention and the Montreal Convention.

Please see Clause 16.2 (Scope Of Liability) for limitations of the Airline’s liability for such carriage.

16.1 General

The Airline’s liability will be determined by the applicable Law and this Conditions of Carriage. Where other Airlines are involved in the Passenger’s journey, their liability will be governed by the applicable Law.

The applicable Law may comprise the Warsaw Convention or the Montreal Convention and/or Laws which apply in individual countries.

The Warsaw Convention and the Montreal Convention apply to international carriage as defined in those Conventions. Provisions concerning the Airline’s liability are set out in Clause 16.2 to 16.6.

16.2 Scope of liability

The Airline will be liable only for damage occurring during carriage performed by the Airline, or in relation to which the Airline has a legal liability to the Passenger. Where the Airline issues a Ticket for carriage by another Airline, or the Airline checks-in the Passenger’s Baggage for carriage by another Airline, the Airline does so only as an agent for that Airline.

16.3 General limitation

16.3.1

Wherever the Warsaw Convention or the Montreal Convention applies to the Passenger’s carriage, our liability will be subject to the rules and limitations of the applicable Convention.

16.3.2

The Airline will be wholly or partly exonerated from liability to the Passenger for damage if the Airline proves that the damage was caused or contributed to by the Passenger’s negligence or other wrongful acts or omissions.

16.3.3

The Airline will not be liable for any damage arising from its compliance with applicable local Law or government rules and regulations or from the Passenger’s failure to comply with the same, except as may be provided by the Warsaw Convention or the Montreal Convention.

16.3.5

Except where the Airline provides otherwise in this Conditions of Carriage, the Airline may be liable to the Passenger only for compensatory damages that the Passenger is entitled to recover for proven losses and costs under the Warsaw Convention or the Montreal Convention or applicable local Laws which may apply.

16.3.6

The Passenger’s contract of carriage with the Airline (including this Conditions of Carriage and all applicable exclusions and limits of liability) applies for the benefit of its Authorised Agents, servants, employees and representatives to the same extent as they apply to the Airline.

16.3.7 

Nothing in these Conditions of Carriage:

16.3.7.1

gives up or waives any exclusion or limitation of the Airline’s liability in terms of the Warsaw Convention, the Montreal Convention or applicable local Law, whichever may be applicable, unless otherwise expressly stated in writing by the Airline; or

16.3.7.2

prevents the Airline from excluding or limiting its liability under the Warsaw Convention, or the Montreal Convention, whichever may be applicable, or under any other Laws which may apply, or gives up any defence available to the Airline there under against any public social security body or any person liable to pay, or who has paid, compensation for the death, wounding or other bodily injury of a Passenger.

16.4 Death or injury of passengers

Our liability for damage sustained by the Passenger, in the event of death, wounding, injury or other bodily injury caused by an accident is subject to the rules and limitations of applicable Law as the following supplementary rules:

16.4.1

The Airline’s liability for proven damages will not be subject to any financial limits as defined by the Warsaw Convention or otherwise;

16.4.2

For any proven damages up to the national currency equivalent of one hundred thousand (100,000) SDRs. Any defence based on proof that the Airline and its agents have taken all necessary measures to avoid the damage, or that it was impossible for such measures to have been taken, will not apply to the Airline;

16.4.3

The Airline agrees to make advance payments to the Passenger or the Passenger’s heirs subject to the following terms and conditions:

16.4.3.1

the person receiving payment is a natural person;

16.4.3.2

the Passenger or the person receiving payment is entitled to compensation under the applicable Laws;

16.4.3.3

payments will be made only in respect of immediate economic needs which must be proven by the Passenger or their heirs;

16.4.3.4

the amount of a payment will be proportional to the economic hardship being suffered as a result of the death, wounding or bodily injury, save that, in the case of death, it will not be less than the national currency equivalent of fifteen thousand (15,000) SDRs per Passenger;

16.4.3.5

payment will not be made later than fifteen (15) Days after the identity of the person entitled to compensation has been established under the applicable Laws;

16.4.3.6

no person will be entitled to receive a payment if he or she or the Passenger to whom the payment relates, caused or contributed to the damage to which the payment relates by his or her negligence;

16.4.3.7

payments will be off-set against any subsequent sums payable in respect of the Airline’s liability under the applicable Laws;

16.4.3.8

except for payment of the minimum sum specified in Clause 16.4.3.4 in respect of death, a payment will not exceed the maximum damages for which the Airline may be liable;

16.4.3.9

the making of a payment will not constitute recognition or admission of liability by the Airline in any way whatsoever;

16.4.3.10

no payment will be made unless the person receiving payment provides the Airline with a signed receipt which also acknowledges the applicability of Clause 16.4.3.7 and 16.4.3.8 and 16.4.3.9; and

16.4.3.11

save to the extent in conflict with any applicable Law, and subject to payment of the minimum sum specified; the Airline’s decision in relation to the payment amount will be final.

16.5 Advice to international Passengers on limitation of liability

16.5.1

Where the Passenger’s journey involves an ultimate destination or Stopover in a country other than the country of origin, the Passenger is advised that the Warsaw Convention or the Montreal Convention may be applicable to the entire journey, including any section entirely within the country of origin or destination.

16.5.2

Where the Montreal Convention is applicable, the Airline is liable for proven damages for death or personal injury, and certain defences to liability specified by that Convention will be inapplicable for damages not exceeding the national currency equivalent of one hundred thousand (100,000) SDRs.

16.5.3

Where the Montreal Convention is not applicable, the conditions of carriage of many Airlines provide that the liability for death or bodily injury will not be subject to any financial limit defined by the Warsaw Convention and that, in respect of such damage up to a maximum of the national currency equivalent of one hundred thousand (100,000) SDRs, any defence to liability based on proof that they have taken all necessary measures will not apply.

Where no such provisions are included in the Airline’s conditions of carriage, please note that:

16.5.3.1

for such Passengers on a journey to, from or with an agreed Stopover in the United States of America (“USA”), the Warsaw Convention and special contracts of carriage embodied in applicable Tariffs provide that the liability of certain Airlines, parties to such special contracts, for death of or personal injury to Passengers is limited in most cases to proven damages not to exceed seventy five thousand (75,000) United States Dollars per Passenger, and that this liability up to such limit will not depend on negligence on the part of the Airline; and

16.5.3.2

for such Passengers travelling by an Airline not a party to such special contracts or on a journey to which the Warsaw Convention applies which is not to, from or having an agreed stopping place in the USA, the liability of the Airline for death or personal injury to Passengers is limited in most cases to ten thousand (10,000) United States Dollars or twenty thousand (20,000) United States dollars; and

16.5.4

Additional protection can be obtained by purchasing insurance from a private company. Such insurance is not affected by any limitation of the Airline’s liability under the Warsaw Convention or the Montreal Convention or such special contracts of carriage of the type mentioned above. For further information, please consult the Airline or the insurance company representatives.

16.5.5

Please note that the limit of liability of seventy five thousand (75,000) United States Dollars specified in this Clause 16.5.3.1 is inclusive of legal fees and costs except that, in case of a claim brought in a state where a provision is made for separate award of legal fees and costs, the limit will be the sum of fifty eight thousand (58,000) United States Dollars exclusive of legal fees and costs.

16.5.6

The Passenger will have no right to compensation for any damage if an action is not brought within seven (7) days of the date of the Passengers arrival at the place of destination, or the date on which the aircraft was scheduled to arrive, or the date on which the carriage stopped.