WATCH: Italian airline touches down at OR Tambo after 16 years
Cheers erupted as the giant white aircraft, decorated with green and red stripes to represent Italy, made its way to the front of the viewing deck
Thinking of visiting the Sistine Chapel? Perhaps the Colosseum? With the return of Alitalia airline to South Africa, making your Italian holiday a reality just became much easier.
There has not been a direct flight from South Africa to Rome in 16 years. However, last week Monday morning, a small crowd at OR Tambo International Airport’s viewing deck watched as a 250-seater Airbus A330 touched down shortly after 8am on home soil for the first time in almost two decades.
Cheers erupted as the giant white aircraft, decorated with green and red stripes to represent Italy, made its way to the front of the viewing deck. An Italian and South African flag were attached to the nose of the aircraft.
Fabio Maria Lazzerini, Chief Commercial Officer (COO) of Alitalia, told the crowd that Alitalia was delighted to be back in South Africa.
“This airport remains the busiest airport in Africa and a gateway to the region.”
He added that a direct flight to Rome would enhance opportunities for business and travel between South Africa and southern Europe.
Bongiwe Pityi, general manager of OR Tambo, together with her team, was excited to welcome Alitalia back to South Africa.
“It is such a pleasure that we can rekindle the relationship we previously shared for many years.”
She also believes that the Italian airline will make an important contribution to the economy of the region.
“The most effective driver for our local economy remains our ability to attract travellers and tourists to our beautiful country.”
According to her, the return of the airline was due to collaboration between the airport, Gauteng Province, City of Ekurhueni, Gauteng Tourism and the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency.
After the Italian Airbus was inaugurated with water from fire trucks, the crowd enjoyed a glass of champagne in true Italian style.
So, next time you drive past the airport, remember to be on the lookout for the runway’s latest addition. Perhaps, you could even greet it with a “Ciao”.
