TRAVELWIRES): : In celebration of the arrival of kulula's shiny new Boeing 737-800, kulula decided to turn the normal order of events on its head, celebrating with the VIPS that really matter - the passengers.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:: Johannesburg, 26 July 2012: Last Friday, passengers traveling from Lanseria International Airport on South Africa's favourite no-frills airline kulula.com were in for a surprise when the innovative airline launched the latest addition to its fleet - a spanking new Boeing 737-800.
Keeping the inaugural flight a surprise, those booked on flight MN457 received more than they bargained for when the low-cost-carrier added all the bells and whistles usually reserved for a VIP reception.
"To launch the first of seven new Boeing 737-800's we could have hosted a VIP party, invited a few ministers, celebrities and suits. Instead, in true kulula fashion, we turned the usual order of events on its head and celebrated with those VIPS that really matter - our passengers," says Erik Venter, CEO of kulula.com.
The launch was kicked-off with a number of over-the-top stunts, that included some passengers arriving in motorcades and a drumming band strutting through the airport. Surprised passengers and airport staff also spotted kulula's very own dignitary Jacob Z, who joined the official line of VIPs who welcomed passengers onboard.
In mid-air the 189 passengers enjoyed a silver service three-course breakfast, complete with crew in tuxedos and bubbly in crystal - service usually reserved for an ambassador's reception and not a commercial flight.
As a grand finale, just before decent, blinds were closed, cabin lights dimmed and guests were treated to a signature Boeing 'SkyTM' interior light show - with local opera star Brenda Thulo singing a Puccini aria. "This performance on decent is a first for kulula and Boeing International; ending our celebrations on a high note" says Venter.
About kulula.com:
For the past decade South Africa's first low-fare airline, kulula (from the Zulu word meaning 'easily'), has pioneered a new way of flying, making it affordable for anyone to fly. Owned by Comair Limited, the 66-year-old JSE-listed aviation company, kulula is proud to be the only independent low-fare South African airline accredited with IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit), the global safety benchmark that enforces rigorous airline safety standards. kulula has been rolling out its Boeing 737-800 (189 seats) fleet upgrade plan since 2010 and operates over 366 flights a week across 12 domestic routes.
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