Mbabane – Holiday travel is set to intensify as Eswatini Air prepares for one of its busiest seasons, with the airline assuring passengers of readiness ahead of the December peak. The national carrier’s Marketing and Communications Manager at Royal Eswatini National Airways Corporation (RENAC), Batsabile Loveness Nkambule, discussed the airline’s holiday operations during an interview on Eswatini TV’s Kusile Breakfast Show.
Nkambule said while the festive period brings high passenger volumes, the airline is accustomed to the seasonal rush. “It’s almost normal for us except that we work when everyone else is resting, especially our technical team,” she said.
She explained that despite the increase in travel demand, flight frequencies sometimes shift based on passenger flow. “In some routes like Johannesburg, where we usually operate three frequencies a day, we may adjust depending on demand since some people travel earlier to spend time with family,” she said.
Nkambule encouraged travellers to book their tickets early, warning that December fares tend to rise due to increased demand. She also urged passengers to observe check-in timelines to avoid delays. “Physical check-in opens two hours before departure and closes an hour before take-off. Online check-in closes three hours before physical check-in begins,” she said.
Addressing common issues around baggage, Nkambule reminded passengers of Eswatini Air’s 23kg checked baggage and 7kg hand luggage allowance, in addition to a laptop bag and handbag. “Passengers often carry more than they should. Our aircraft has specific weight limits, so packing light helps prevent delays,” she said.
She noted that Eswatini Air uses a secure online payment system that supports MasterCard, Visa, and American Express, adding that travellers must ensure their cards are 3D-secure. “Sometimes transactions fail because the traveller’s bank details are not updated, especially for foreign nationals living in Eswatini,” Nkambule said.
On passenger comfort, Nkambule said Eswatini Air remains a full-service airline offering complimentary meals across all routes. “Whether it’s a short flight to Johannesburg or a longer one to Cape Town, we serve meals on board based on flight duration,” she explained.
She added that the airline caters to passengers with special needs, including meal preferences and mobility support, provided arrangements are made in advance. “If you need a wheelchair or a specific type of meal, it’s best to notify us early so we can prepare accordingly,” she said.
Nkambule will return to Kusile Breakfast Show in the coming weeks to continue guiding viewers on travel tips as the festive season approaches.
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