South Africa's Competition Commission has launched an investigation into allegations that a number of the country's airlines have colluded to fix prices during the World Cup later this year.

BA/Comair, South African Airways (SAA), 1Time, SA Airlink, Mango and SA Express all face possible action after SAA submitted a leniency application in December to secure protection from prosecution under the Competition Act in return for full co-operation. The commission revealed that SAA had provided e-mail correspondence between the airlines that suggested an agreement had been reached to adjust ticket prices ahead of this summer's World Cup.

SAA's application for leniency follows a call by the Office of the President in November to investigate airlines over fears that fares could be increased during the World Cup to take advantage of the expected surge in inbound visitor numbers for the event. Commissioner Shan Ramburuth said: "The soccer World Cup tournament provides South African business with a good opportunity to showcase our international competitiveness, an opportunity which could have positive and lasting benefits.

"But it is also possible that some firms might want to exploit the situation by engaging in anti-competitive conduct. The commission is obliged to investigate all legitimate complaints in such instances." If any airline is found to have been involved with efforts to set new pricing strategies for the World Cup, the commission will refer the case to the Competition Tribunal.