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Comair issues apology following allegations of racism from Black Motion

Cape Town -  Following an investigation into allegations of racism - after Black Motion members Thabo Mabogwane and Bongani Mohosana were downgraded on a British Airways flight - Comair's CEO has written an apology to the duo.

The apology also detailed and explained what had happened. 

Comair Limited is an airline based in South Africa that operates scheduled services on domestic routes as a British Airways franchisee.

According to a statement released by Comair the situation arose as two damaged business class seats were not removed from the check-in system, as should have happened. As a result two customers were checked-in and allocated seats in which they could not fly.

These customers were both silver card frequent flyer members, who are prioritised as a matter of global policy.

In considering who could be asked to downgrade, the airport staff then identified non-frequent flyers travelling on discounted business class fares. According to the statement this is common airline practice on rare occasions when downgrades occur.

It was on this basis that Thabo and Bongani in business class were approached.

The statement goes on to say: "Understandably they were upset. The crew was under pressure because the flight was already delayed, but should have handled the situation better."

According to the statement "Comair will not tolerate racism," which is why they have taken the allegations very seriously and investigated swiftly and thoroughly.

Comair has asked Black Motion members if they would like the investigation independently reviewed.

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