- The order was issued on 5 June 2026.
- Sakeliga filed the challenge in September 2025.
- The IASC withdrew opposition in February 2026.
- The ruling applies to international carrier licences.
- Domestic operators remain subject to existing rules.
The Pretoria High Court exempts international airlines from Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment criteria in South Africa.
The court issued the order on 5 June 2026 after a legal challenge filed by Sakeliga in September 2025. The International Air Services Council withdrew its opposition in February 2026. The ruling removes the application of local empowerment criteria when adjudicating licence applications for foreign carriers.
The decision clarifies the limits of the regulator’s authority regarding international operators. It follows concerns that such requirements exceeded the scope of the B-BBEE Act for foreign airlines.
South African Airways continues to operate under domestic rules while international carriers gain clarity on licensing.
