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Associated story on MyShtetl.co.za:
Board blames Israeli government
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BACKGROUND: Last month it was reported El Al might be forced to stop flying to Johannesburg on 31 January because SA refused to provide the head of Israel's security team here with diplomatic passports.
Israeli regulations require such passports for El Al operations at international airports.
SA Jewish community leaders sat in on two bilateral govt meetings and by late last week SAJBD chair Zev Krengel told media "we're hitting the deadline and the SA govt thinks the Israelis have accepted [its demands while] the Israelis are ready to stop flying" on 31 Jan.
The following press release was sent to MyShtetl.co.za by El Al South Africa at 12h45 on Wednesday 3 February. It was issued by and unnamed ‘El Al spokesman’:
“Despite rumours to the contrary, El Al Israel Airlines wish to make it clear that they have no intention to suspend or cease operations to South Africa.
“The Government of Israel and the Government of South Africa are in the process of negotiations to maintain the best security for our passengers which will always be of a very high standard.
“El Al Israel Airlines Limited has a strong affinity with the South African Jewish Community. We have been flying to and from Israel for the past 59 years and look forward to continuing to operate for many years to come.”
