South African Airways (SAA) has been a cornerstone of South African aviation since its establishment in 1934. As the country’s flag carrier, SAA has a rich history, marked by resilience and a commitment to connecting South Africa with the world. Headquartered at Airways Park, O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, the airline operates a hub-and-spoke network, serving destinations across Africa and offering intercontinental flights to Perth, Australia, and São Paulo, Brazil.
- How much do SAA cabin crew earn?
- How many bags are you allowed on South African Airways?
- Why is SAA struggling?
- How do I contact South African Airways?
- What cabin crew pays the most?
- How much do Saa apprentices get paid?
- Does 7kg carry-on include handbag?
- Can I take Biltong on a plane?
- How much is per kg of extra baggage?
Over the decades, SAA has navigated both triumphs and trials. Joining the Star Alliance in 2006 as the first African carrier in this prestigious global network was a milestone. However, financial challenges led to the airline entering voluntary business rescue in December 2019, suspending operations in 2020.
In June 2021, the South African government announced a Strategic Equity Partnership (SEP) with the Takatso Consortium, which aimed to privatize 51% of SAA. After lengthy negotiations, the deal was terminated, leaving SAA as a 100% state-owned entity.
Despite these hurdles, SAA resumed operations on 23 September 2021, with a fleet of eight aircraft approved by the South African Civil Aviation Authority. Remarkably, SAA achieved the accolade of being Africa’s second-best airline by Skytrax in 2021, even after an 18-month hiatus from scheduled flights.
Current Operations and Fleet
SAA operates flights across Africa and select intercontinental routes, prioritizing efficiency and reliability. The airline’s streamlined fleet underscores its focus on sustainable operations while maintaining its reputation for exceptional service.
Customer Support and Voyager Loyalty Program
SAA offers comprehensive customer support to address booking queries, baggage concerns, refunds, and more.
- General Enquiries: Email at ReservationsJNB@flysaa.com or call +27 11 978 1111.
- Voyager Program: A loyalty program for frequent travelers. For assistance, email Voyager@flysaa.com or call +27 11 978 1234.
For online bookings, website-related issues, or cargo reservations, SAA provides dedicated teams to ensure a seamless experience.