In SA (and SAA) today, if big money is mentioned (like that paid for new aircraft), its all about who's palm is being greased.
It has nothing to do with routes, ETOPS, pax numbers or yield figures.
ONLY, who's palm is being greased.
The taxpayer is buying so its not important where the money is coming from, ONLY what percentage is filtered to the back pocket.
It's not about aircraft, you can call it Gautrain, Koega harbour, La Merci airport, new WC stadium, new SANDF arms, new power stations, etsc. etc.
The aircraft is just a way to the means.