Mango Airlines, South Africa’s state-owned low-cost carrier grounded since July 2021, is preparing for a comeback. After four years of financial uncertainty, the airline is in the final phase of securing a deal with a selected investor that could see it return to the skies. We spoke to transport economist Dr. Joachim Vermooten, who noted that Mango’s revival could boost competition in the aviation sector and improve affordable travel options for South Africans, if managed sustainably.