iThemba kids choose name for Austrian B777

The plane will be called “Sibanye”

More than 1,800 employees at Austrian Airlines (AUA) cast their votes and the result was clear – the brand-new Boeing B777, which is to join Austrian Airlines’ long-haul fleet as of May, will bear the name “Sibanye”, which translates as “We are one”. Following the introduction of a new route from Cape Town in October, Austrian Airlines asked the children at the iThemba Primary School—which opened its doors for the first time in January—to come up with suggestions for a name for the B777. AUA and help alliance have been partners for many years. Among other things, the Lufthansa Group airline collects donations for the organization on board their long-haul flights. As well as “Sibanye”, other names which were in the running were “Intaka yethemba” (Bird of hope), “Intaba” (Mountain) and “Intaka enhle” (Beautiful bird).

help alliance, the aid organization set up by the Lufthansa Group, was responsible to a large extent for financing the building of the iThemba Primary School in the Capricorn township near Cape Town. 105 children from this economically deprived area are currently receiving instruction there from qualified teachers, thereby giving them better prospects for the future. Once all phases of construction have been completed, the school will provide places for 700 girls and Boys.

Click here for more information about the project in South Africa.