Binding bids have to be submitted by midnight.
The final evaluation will be done in London this week as Transnet executives, headed by MD Saki Macozoma, meet the bidders. It is expected that the successful partner will be announced early in July. Key factors in the bidding process are expected to be based on the foreign equity partner's ability to grow the airline within its alliance or company and how much cash is offered. The deciding factor is likely to be SAA's decision on its best alliance strategy. Bonderman does not insist that SAA join any specific alliance, a benefit for SAA because of its geographic position.