SAA Pilot's leader: Appoint experienced CEO and we'll repeat ANZ's turnaround

Captain Grant Back, experienced flyboy and chairman of the SAA Pilot's Association, is convinced the national airline can replicate the turnaround achieved by Air New Zealand, which was revived from dumpster into among the world's most successful. He believes the key lies in the appointment of an experienced and knowledgeable chief executive, and the sooner the better. Stressing the urgency, Back, whose organisation speaks for over 99% of SAA's 540 active pilots (only three are not members) shared his thoughts on this week's episode of Rational Radio. He maintains SAA's pilots are keen to be part of a successful solution for the airline - and is convinced there is one. - Alec Hogg