South African Airways

SAA understands the interest and commentaries that have followed the recent announcement that negotiations between South African state and Takatso Aviation on the partial privatization and recapitalization of SAA have been terminated.

It is only unfortunate that many of the negative and pessimistic views published have been accompanied by erroneous facts on the actual state of the financial performance and operational prowess of the current SAA.

The abandonment by our shareholder of the investment opportunity that was expected from Takatso Aviation has not put the company in any perilous situation in terms of both its financial position, operational plans, and long-term business continuity.

It is business as usual at SAA. The momentum of growth and strategic posture that has driven the business since it emerged from the voluntary business rescue process during the Covid-19 period, remains intact. In fact, this new development has re-energized SAA’s workers as it signals a period of certainty.

Concurrent with the negotiation around this equity transaction over the last two years, SAA’s Interim Board and management have had to craft an alternative business plan in line with their fiduciary duty and risk management obligations.

This plan, which will now be vigorously rolled out, foresees SAA staying on its trajectory of growth and attainment of long-term financial sustainability. Our journey, which the 2022/23 financial results will reveal, is one of perseverance and innovation that bears success.

Sustainable and Resilient

Whilst admittedly unpleasing, the recently published SAA’s audited results spanning 2018 to 2022 capture a pivotal phase, encompassing SAA's business rescue period that culminated in a transformative juncture in SAA's financial narrative.

SAA has been resized and repositioned based on a carefully crafted profit-driven operating model, and a corruption-busting culture. Hence, we have talked of “SAA version two” since September 2021.

Embedded in the current SAA’s management system is a reliance on launching new routes and aircraft fleet expansion plans from revenues that are generated from the airline operations.

Moving Forward

During 2023, SAA launched three new routes, bringing our total route count to fourteen, including Sao Paulo as the first intercontinental route. On 28 April 2024, we will launch a second intercontinental route to Perth, and we remain on course to add more routes before March 2025.

To accommodate these additional routes, we are successfully securing additional aircraft from the notoriously risk-averse international aircraft leasing market. This March 2024 we are flying thirteen aircraft and are preparing to receive an additional two A320s before June. The goal to operate a total of about 20 aircraft by 2025Q1 has not been affected by the termination of private equity partner discussions.

South African Airways (SAA) is pleased to announce that the seasonal route to Gqeberha, formally known as Port Elizabeth will continue as a permanent destination on the airlines flight itinerary beyond 31 March 2024.

This decision reflects SAA’s commitment to expanding its network not only for regional and international, but also for domestic customers and aims at improving convenience for its customers.

SAA offers two return flights per day, seven days a week - between OR Tambo International Airport and Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport in Gqeberha.

Below is the daily flight schedule:

We are delighted that SAA is able to keep Qqeberha as a permanent route offering and provide a seamless travel experience to meet the needs of all our customers.

South African Airways (SAA) is pleased to announce the implementation of customer-driven changes to its flight and route schedule, aimed at improving convenience for its customers.

SAA has undertaken a schedule review of its upcoming Perth, Australia route to identify areas for enhancement. Customers travelling from Perth can expect more convenient departure and arrival times, allowing for easier domestic and regional connections and reduced travel times. This change also assists connecting customers from New Zealand and other cities in Australia. Customers out of Perth, will benefit from an overnight flight which allows better rest on your journey so that you are refreshed and ready to immerse yourself in true African hospitality.

From its inaugural flight on Sunday 28 April 2024, flights from Johannesburg to Perth will depart at 20h55 and arrive at 12h20 the following day. The schedule for outward bound remain unchanged.

On Monday 29 April 2024, the inaugural flight from Perth to Johannesburg will now depart Perth at 23h50 and arrive in Johannesburg at 04h45 on Tuesday 30 April 2024. All times are local for both Johannesburg and Perth.

The changed full schedule for the time being is:

Customers already booked on the earlier departure time from Perth, will be accommodated on the flight on the same day. Customers who may be adversely affected should call the SAA call centre in Johannesburg on +27 11 978 1111 and in Perth on +61 2 9286 8960 for assistance with the rebooking and reissuing of their tickets.

With these adjustments on the Perth route, passengers are assured that their feedback will continue to shape and influence the airline's commitment to customer centricity.

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As part of our 30th Birthday Anniversary, we have lowered our Tier qualifying and retaining status thresholds for 2024. You are now able to qualify or retain your Tier with 3 000 less miles.

SAA Voyager would like to remind you to keep your personal details always updated. Ensure that your name and surname on your Voyager profile is the same as per your passport and travel documents.

To receive your One-time-password (OTP), promotions and important communication, it is imperative to update your email address and mobile number.

Big news for travellers! SAA Voyager and GetTransfer entered into a partnership, effective 1 April 2024.

Get ready to elevate your travel game with the ultimate partnership. GetTransfer and South African Airways Voyager are joining forces to redefine your travel experience. As a part of this synergy, all Voyager members will earn an impressive 7 SAA Voyager Miles for every Euro spent. Whether you're embarking on a business expedition or a leisure escape, this alliance promises an unforgettable travel adventure.

Brace yourself for a wave of excitement as we unveil captivating updates and irresistible offers during this journey together.

Bookings can be made via saav.gettransfer.com.

Book on or before 28 April 2024 for travel until 30 November 2024 to qualify for our fully inclusive G/class Economy class return fare. Fly between Johannesburg and Perth for R12 262, or between Perth and Johannesburg for AUD 1405.

Fully inclusive return Business class fares are available in P/class at R59 556. Between Johannesburg and Perth, or at AUD 6829 between Perth and Johannesburg.

Terms and conditions apply.