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About South Africa Airways

With 90 years in the skies, South African Airways (SAA) is the most awarded Skytrax airline in Africa and the proud carrier of the South African flag, linking domestic, regional, and international destinations. SAA flies from Johannesburg to Abidjan, Accra, Durban, Cape Town, Harare, Kinshasa, Lusaka, Lagos, Mauritius, Windhoek, Victoria Falls, São Paulo (from Cape Town and Johannesburg) and, from 28 April 2024 to Perth.

Since first taking to the skies in 1934, SAA has grown to include a passenger airline, a cargo transport service, and related services provided through its wholly owned subsidiaries, SAA Technical (SAAT) and Air Chefs. SAAT delivers high-quality maintenance services, major airframe checks, engine overhauls, mechanical components, avionics, and line maintenance to SAA and third parties. Air Chefs provides in-flight, airline lounges and other catering services to the airline and third parties.

08 April 2024 - SAA moves to bring stability to its Executive Management Team Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (8 April 2024) – This past weekend, South African Airways (SAA) has advertised five interim executive management positions, including that of the Chief Executive Officer.

Over the past three years SAA has been led by a talented and committed interim executive management team that has specifically been tasked with steering the airline until the anticipated Strategic Equity Partner (SEP) could come on board. As the pursuit of this transaction with Takatso Aviation has now been terminated, the Board has deemed it necessary to have a properly constituted and permanent executive team to pilot the airline’s strategic plan into the future.

“The filling of these posts is a positive and decisive step aimed at providing organizational stability and predictable direction of the growth plans and expansion plans currently being pursued”, says Derek Hanekom, Chairperson of the Interim Board of Directors.

“The interim executive management team has admirably rebuilt the airline as it emerged out of business rescue with the understanding that their posts would remain interim positions until a new controlling shareholder appoints its management team. All of them, including the Interim CEO, Prof John Lamola, supports this development as a necessary and natural step in strengthening SAA’s position in both the local and international aviation markets.”

“SAA’s strong recovery would not have been possible without the dedication and passion of every single valued SAA employee. The commitment of all employees who serve as the backbone of the airline and who believe in the growth of SAA is highly appreciated by the SAA Board,” added Hanekom.

Applications for SAA’ Chief Executive Officer, Chief Commercial Officer, Chief Human Capital Officer, South African Airways Technical CEO, and Air Chefs CEO closes on Friday, 26 April 2024. Suitably qualified and interested candidates, including the present incumbents, are invited to apply.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

13 March 2024 - SAA enhances flight schedule from Perth in response to customer feedback Collapsed Content

Johannesburg, 13 March 2024 - 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.

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.

"We are thrilled to introduce this enhancement to our flight schedule, which directly addresses feedback and preferences from our customers," says SAA’s Chief Commercial Officer, Mr Tebogo Tsimane. "At SAA, we are dedicated to providing exceptional service and a seamless travel experience to meet the needs of all our customers."

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.

For more information, visit www.flysaa.com

The changed full schedule for the time being is:

Flight No.

Effective Date

End

Date

Frequency

Departure Airport

Dept. Time

Arrival Airport

Arrival Time

Block Time Duration

SA 0280

28-Apr-24

24-Oct-24

Tuesday Thursday Sunday

JNB

20:55

PER

12:20+1

09:25

SA 0281

29-Apr-24

25-Oct-24

Wednesday

Friday

Monday

PER

23:50

JNB

04:45+1

10:55

ENDS

Media enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA

Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa

LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa

Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

06 March 2024 - SAA's Gqeberha route - Now a permanent destination Collapsed Content

26 February 2024 - SAA clarifies perceived runway incursion at OR Tambo International Airport Collapsed Content

Johannesburg, (26 February 2024) - South African Airways (SAA) is aware of the detail pertaining to an SAA aircraft and a perceived runway incursion on Friday evening, 23rd February 2024 at OR Tambo International Airport between Lufthansa flight LH573 that was scheduled to depart from Johannesburg on route to Frankfurt, and SAA flight SA422 that had landed a few minutes earlier from Port Elizabeth.

The Lufthansa Boeing 747-8 was scheduled to depart from runway 03L at 20h16. However, due to an impending storm, the departure was delayed, and the aircraft was permitted to vacate the runway. The SAA Airbus A320 which had arrived earlier, was then permitted to cross runway 03L and taxi to its intended terminal.

A preliminary assessment by SAA had established that NO Runway Incursion occurred, as alluded to, by some media reports. The Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has confirmed that the video was a ruse, and the footage had a time lapse of approximately five minutes having passed in just 38 seconds of the recording.

SAA’s Flight Operations and Safety Department together with key stakeholders’ safety departments have done both the internal and collaborative safety assessments and investigations and confirm there was no aircraft taking off at the time as claimed in the video caption.

SAA and its aviation stakeholders employ robust safety measures and implement strategies to mitigate against any potential risk that may arise to passengers and aircraft.

SAA Interim CEO, Prof. John Lamola says, “SAA’s flight deck crew are trained routinely to handle all situations that may occur in the air or on the ground, which include runway incursions. SAA confirms that there was no runway incursion or risk of any occurring as shown by the video on social media.”

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

16 January 2024 - SAA suspends two Mauritius flights due to Cyclone Belal Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (Tuesday, 16 January 2024) – South African Airways (SAA) flights to Mauritius were disrupted on the morning of 14 January due to Tropical Cyclone BELAL. The two affected flights, SA190 from O.R Tambo International Airport to Mauritius, and flight SA191 inbound to Johannesburg from Mauritius was cancelled.

“The cancellation of flights due to adverse weather conditions is procedural for the safety and wellbeing of our customers and crew. Safety is priority to the decision of cancelling flights”, says SAA’s Executive Operations, Mr Madoda Nkalane. “Safe operations always take precedence to avert any risk that severe and unpredictable weather conditions may pose,” added Mr Nkalane.

Customers from the cancelled flights will be accommodated on additional flights (SA4192/SA3193 and SA 190/191), scheduled on Tuesday, 16th January 2024, to assist customers and to meet the current demand.

SA4192 (positioning flight) from Johannesburg, O.R. Tambo International Airport to Mauritius, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport will depart at 14h30
SA3193 (passenger flight) from Mauritius to O.R. Tambo International Airport will depart at 21h20
SA190 (passenger flight) will depart Johannesburg at 15h00, arriving in Mauritius at 21h00
SA191 (passenger flight) will depart from Mauritius at 21h50 arriving in Johannesburg at 24h00

SAA and the Airports Authority in Mauritius will continue to monitor the situation closely and further communications will be provided should there be any further changes or cancellations.

END

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

08 January 2024 - Perth, Australia - Back on SAA's radar Collapsed Content

Johannesburg/Perth (Monday, 8 January 2024) – South African Airways (SAA) is delighted to announce the return of its flights to Perth, Australia. The inaugural flight from Johannesburg to Perth is scheduled for 28 April 2024. Bookings open today, Monday 8 January 2024.

Speaking on the announcement, CEO of SAA, Professor John Lamola, says SAA’s operations to Perth are in line with the airline’s strategic plans to scale its operations to a profitable level by leveraging SAA’s unique capabilities as a national carrier with wide-body aircraft that can provide South Africa with long-haul intercontinental air connectivity.

The Perth route marks the second interoceanic route to be reopened within 6 months of the successful launch of the Sao Paulo, Brazil route on 31 October 2023. A Southern hemisphere travel package that goes from Perth to Sau Paulo through Johannesburg, and the way back, is now possible.

As a member of the global network of Star Alliance, SAA is pleased that it can further enhance the seamless travel into and out of Australia for customers of the 25 airlines that are co-members of the alliance.

“Besides the global interconnectivity potential of this route, Perth has long been a favoured destination for South African and Australian travellers, with approximately 80% of our target market being visiting family and friends,” adds Lamola. “The recommencement of the route provides an easier and direct passage for both leisure and business travellers, promoting trade and cultural exchange between South Africa and Australia”.

Flights (SA 280) depart OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg, 3 times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays at 20h55 and arrive at Perth International Airport, the following day at 12h20. Flights from Perth (SA 281) are scheduled 3 times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays and depart at 14h40, arriving the same day at 19h35 in Johannesburg.

For the launch phase of the route, SAA will operate an Airbus A340 – 300, with a total seat capacity of 253 (38 business class seats and 215 economy seats). A marvel in the global skies, the A340 – 300 is synonymous with being spacious, comfortable, reliable, and capable of handling long-distance flights with ease.

The launch of the Perth route provides another opportunity for SAA Voyager frequent flyers to earn and redeem their air miles. One SAA Voyager mile is awarded to members for every R1.60 they spend on their purchase of an air ticket. As SAA is a member of the Star Alliance, Voyager members in are eligible for the HSBC Star Alliance Credit Card that is administered from Australia. This affords members additional opportunities to earn Voyager miles and attain Elite credit card status based on their spending.

“We are committed to growing SAA into a revered leader in the global aviation sector. Perth is but one indicator of this ambition and gives us confidence that our vision of expanding our footprint to over 20 destinations this year will be realised,” concludes Lamola.

Visit www.flysaa.com or contact your travel agent/sales representative.

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

19 December 2023 - South African Airways expands partnership with SunExpress Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (19 December 2023) – South African Airways (SAA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with SunExpress (a joint venture of Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines), to support the national carrier’s operations with four aircrafts in the 2024/2025 financial year.

The MoU is an add-on to the current six-month damp lease agreement, which was started in October this year and include the lease of two Boeing 737-800s as well as maintenance and cockpit crew. The MoU was signed by SunExpress CEO Max Kownatzki and SAA CEO Prof. John Lamola at a joint press event in Johannesburg, on Thursday, 14th December 2023.

In addition to plans to increase the number of damp lease aircraft, SAA and SunExpress are currently exploring options for a multi-year reciprocal capacity support and further cooperation with regards to maintenance, training and commercial support.

"The memorandum of understanding clearly underlines our commitment to further deepen our successful partnership with SAA. We are proud of the trust that SAA is placing in us with the renewed intention to collaborate. We strive to build on this to develop a strong, long-term partnership and leverage more opportunities together in the future”, said Max Kownatzki, CEO of SunExpress. “Over the next decade, SunExpress will more than double its fleet, reaching a 150-aircraft fleet by 2033. These kinds of partnerships enable us to efficiently utilize our fleet, mitigating the impact of our seasonality, ” added Kownatzki.

Prof. John Lamola, CEO of SAA, welcomed the continued cooperation: "SunExpress has proven to be an extremely reliable partner for us in the first few months. We are therefore delighted that this valuable partnership will not only be continued but the scope of the partnership expanded to include additional aircraft for our 2024 holiday peak season. The additional aircraft will support our operations to meet the growing customer demand during peak seasons and mitigates our management of the global aircraft availability crisis.”

END

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

12 December 2023 - Fly to Gqeberha with SAA Collapsed Content

Johannesburg, (12 December 2023) - Holidaymakers and business travelers can now fly to South Africa’s ‘friendly city’, Gqeberha, in the Eastern Cape with South African Airways (SAA). The first flight from Johannesburg to Gqeberha is set to depart, on Wednesday, 13 December 2023 at 11h25.

With December and January some of the busiest travel periods in South Africa, customers can now take advantage of SAA’s flights to Gqeberha, which links the two economic hubs of Gauteng and the Eastern Cape. This route provides much needed connectivity for business and connecting families and friends.

SAA offers two return flights per day, seven days a week - between OR Tambo International Airport and Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport in Gqeberha - for the duration of the festive season (see daily flight schedule below).

Flight Number	Origin	ETD	Destination	ETA
SA0405	JNB	11:25	PLZ	13:00
SA0419	JNB	16:00	PLZ	17:35
SA0410	PLZ	13:30	JNB	15:05
SA0422	PLZ	18:05	JNB	19:40

The Gqeberha route is a special seasonal route and forms part of SAA’s plans to continue expanding its routes in the months to come. It aims to provide customers with greater options and more seamless travel during the peak festive season.

Access SAA’s updated flight schedule on www.flysaa.com for all flights and best fares.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

05 December 2023 - Star Alliance is world's leading airline alliance - World Travel Awards 2023 Collapsed Content

Johannesburg, (5 December 2023) - For the fourth consecutive year, Star Alliance proudly announces its victory as the World’s Leading Airline Alliance at the esteemed World Travel Awards. The announcement took place at a Gala ceremony held at Dubai’s iconic Burj Al Arab on 1st December 2023.

Earlier in the North America edition in August 2023, the Star Alliance Los Angeles airport lounge achieved a remarkable milestone by securing the title of North America's Leading Airport Lounge for the fourth consecutive year, further solidifying its status as a leader in airport hospitality.

Expressing his gratitude for these accolades, Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias stated, "We are truly honoured to receive the World Travel Awards for the fourth consecutive year. This achievement is a testament to the relentless dedication of employees within the Star Alliance network who strive to provide consistent and seamless travel experiences."

Panagiotoulias continued, "Our success is made possible not only by the hard work of our employees across the network, but also by the unwavering confidence and support from our valued customers. We are immensely grateful for the continued trust placed in us and our member carriers."

The World Travel Awards, now in its landmark 30th edition, aims to recognize, reward, and celebrate excellence across various sectors of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries. The winners are determined through a global poll involving qualified executives in the travel and tourism sector, as well as consumer travel buyers.

Graham E Cooke, Founder of the World Travel Awards, stated “Congratulations to Star Alliance for winning ‘World’s Leading Airline Alliance 2023’. This is a remarkable achievement, reflecting how the brand is setting the global aviation alliance benchmark. The commitment of the entire Star Alliance team serves as an inspiration to us all.”

In addition to the alliance-level award, several Star Alliance member carriers also claimed individual victories this year. These triumphs further highlight the collective strength and excellence of Star Alliance and its member airlines in delivering unparalleled service to travellers.

END

Issued by: Group Corporate Affairs
01 December 2023 - Statement by SAA Chief Executive Officer - SAA not at breaking point Collapsed Content

Johannesburg, (Friday, 1 December 2023) - During its appearance at Parliament’s Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) last week, South African Airways’ external auditors presented their findings on the airline’s financial statements for the past four years, that is from April 2018 to March 2022. Media reports following this SCOPA presentations have largely painted an SAA that is marred by a history of poor management and a persistent uncertain future.

The Auditor-General’s report covers SAA’s financials during the state capture years, and not its current cash positive and post-business rescue conditions.

The management and the Board that has been installed since SAA emerged out of business rescue and started operations late 2021, would disprove any claim that financial position of SAA is currently at a breaking point, and the airline’s sustainability is questionable.

The recent financial year 2022/2023 is still being audited and the formal tabling of the audited financial statements to Parliament, where the details of the structure of this public entity’s financials will be revealed, is yet to take place.

Energized by the appraisal in the findings presented by the Auditor-General to the SAA shareholder representative, Minister Pravin Gordhan at the Annual General Meeting of the company in November 2023, as well as at the SCOPA sitting referred to above, SAA’s current leadership is marshalled to rebuild and reposition the airline as a formidable air services provider in its chosen markets.

Under the insistence of its shareholder representative, the airline has put several controls and policies into place to avoid a repeat of those years, and to ensure scrupulous compliance of the Public Finance Management Act.

SAA is in a healthier financial position than it has been in several years. The audited financial results of the year 2022/ 23 will show that the airline has the strongest balance sheet since its last profit declaration in 2011. Since last year, the airline has been running on financial resources generated from its own operations and management innovations.

Even against the historical negative performance of the years reported at SCOPA, the Auditor General could declare that SAA is a going concern, able to pay its liabilities as they became due.

The airline is on an expansion drive, and in the market for more aircraft and is pursuing a plan to add more international routes to its network.

In the past month SAA has added its first intercontinental flight to São Paulo, and an additional regional destination to Abidjan. This week it announced the opening of the Gqeberha route from 13th December 2023. An announcement on the next interoceanic route will be made at the start of the calendar year 2024.

Not only is the airline meticulously expanding its fleet and routes, but it is also attracting jobs that had to be shed during the business rescue restructuring process.

Rigorous planning and due diligence are conducted prior to making major changes to operations, with a view to ensure SAA remains in a stable position for sustainable growth.

The airlines’ expansion programme had a slag in the first six months of the current fiscal year due to the worldwide shortage of aircraft following the Covid pandemic global supply chain constraints that are experienced by aircraft manufacturers. To mitigate this pressure on available seats capacity, we have deployed temporarily unbranded aircraft ahead of the permanent long-term acquisitions that are being pursued. We are thankful that customers have embraced these aircraft and crew that vary from SAA’s acclaimed product.

We are also humbled and thankful for the support we have received from our customers, Voyager members, and suppliers, along with our travel trade partners, who have stoically stood by us. Their continued support remains invaluable to us.

SAA has a medium-term corporate plan that envisages the airline being further strengthened by investment and business transformation from the identified private equity partner, Takatso Aviation. It is planned that until this transaction is concluded, the resized SAA will continue to defend and grow its market share and thrive financially.

Our relationship with our suppliers, trade partners, and customers are vital to us, and we remain committed to talking to you, sharing ideas, and addressing any concerns you may have about SAA’s business continuity prospects.

John Lamola

SAA Interim Chief Executive Officer

28 November 2023 - SAA Peak season offering to Gqeberha - Another industry option Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (Tuesday, 28th November 2023) – South African Airways (SAA) remains committed to customer travel requirements, over the peak travel season.

Bookings are now opened! For our special seasonal schedule to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) from Johannesburg, with 2 daily flights, 7 days a week, commencing Wednesday, 13th December 2023 until Saturday, 31st March 2024.

Take advantage of SAA’s promotional one-way fare of just R 713.00 (G- Class), until 27 December 2023 for travel between 13 December 2023 until 31 March 2024.

Gqeberha is nicknamed "The Friendly City" or "The Windy City". Experience Gqeberha, in South Africa's Eastern Cape Province. It has a major port, numerous beaches, Victorian landmarks, boat tours to spot the whales, rare seabirds, and wildlife reserves outside the metropolitan area which is home to elephants, rhinos, and other big game.

Access SAA’s updated flight schedule on www.flysaa.com for all flights and best fares.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

21 November 2023 - SAA cancels Malawi route - effective 30 November 2023 Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (21st November 2023) – South African Airways (SAA) will suspend service to Malawi (Lilongwe and Blantyre), due to the recent economic challenges in Malawi.

In an industry alert last week, SAA mentioned that it was monitoring the situation of substantial devaluation of the Malawian Kwacha, acute foreign currency shortages, and the escalation of blocked funds, closely before making the difficult decision to cancel its route to Malawi. The suspension of services to Malawi is effective from Thursday, 30th November 2023.

SAA’s Chief Executive Officer, Prof. John Lamola, says SAA’s decision to cancel the route is a carefully considered risk management intervention in response to Malawi’s current economic challenges.

“This move should not be interpreted as a step back from the airline’s commitment to serving the people of Malawi and promoting trade links between South Africa and Malawi. As the new leadership of SAA – and as a small but growing airline – we cannot commit to routes that are not financially sustainable.

“SAA values its relationship with the Malawian market and thanks its customers for their understanding and continued support during these challenging times. We will continue to closely monitor the situation. We remain open to resuming the route to Malawi as soon as the situation warrants the substance of financially efficient operations from this route,” added Lamola.

SAA apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause and thanks its customers for their understanding and continued support during these challenging times.

For further information, customers can contact the SAA support team as follows:

SAA support team:

SAA office in LLW (Lilongwe): +265 887 57 13 24 contact: GodfreyLungu@flysaa.com
SAA office is BLZ (Blantyre); +265 980 79 41 18 contact: LeonKachina@flysaa.com
The Regional Manager, contact Austin Nyawara, email: Austinnyawara@flysaa.com; cell phone + 25 470 714 8520

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

13 November 2023 - SAA Lounge at OR Tambo International Airport redefines the customer experience Collapsed Content
Today, marks a special day for South African Airways (SAA). We are delighted to announce the opening of the new international lounge at OR Tambo International Airport. Our commitment to offering customers exceptional services both in the air and on the ground, is revealed by the recent upgrades to our world-class airport lounges, called, The Lounge.

The opening of the OR Tambo International Premium lounge is the first part of renovations of all lounges, operated by SAA. The First-Class Platinum lounge at OR Tambo International will be renovated early 2024, to be followed by refurbishments of Qheberha, Cape Town, OR Tambo Domestic and Durban lounges.

In partnership with Discovery, and Investec, The Lounge features upgraded comforts where guests can connect, or be connected ahead of their travels, and boasts all-new contemporary design furniture and fittings as well as a carefully curated local art collection. Guests have the option to be seated with a view over the airport ramp or work in one of the focus booths or simply relax in a quiet zone. The space has been carefully planned should you wish to extend your meeting in our conference rooms or have a separate space to relax with the family.

A buffet dining menu is on offer throughout the day satisfying all palates. The new bar is a show masterpiece from which trained baristas & mixologists will offer a coffee of your choice, a selection of cocktails and mocktails or a choice of the finest South African wines and bubbly.

Most notably, state-of-the-art La Marzocco coffee machines, often referred to as the “Ferrari” of coffee machines. Sourced from Florence, Italy, the La Marzocco coffee machines form part of a heritage brand dating back to 1927 and are the pinnacle in coffee craftsmanship.

To better serve our guests with the ultimate coffee experience, the SAA Lounge team has undergone specialised training focused on brewing techniques and creating various kinds of coffee - all with an emphasis on harnessing the flavour of the different blends available to suit their individual tastes and preferences.

Much attention has been placed on providing travellers with unparalleled experiences and increasing our focus on the customer experience, made possible by our partners Discovery and Investec in transforming our lounges.

By offering a truly exceptional lounge experience that boasts the very best of what South Africa, and the African continent, have on offer, SAA is confident that we will be recognised not only for our pursuit of excellence in the skies, but the overall customer experience on the ground as well.

The Lounge will help us achieve our vision of once again taking our rightful place as one of the leading airline carriers in the world.

For More Insight of The Lounge on SAA social media:
- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
- Twitter - https://twitter.com/flysaa
- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/
Issued By: Group Corporate Affairs

31 October 2023 - SAA spreads wings to São Paulo Brazil, from Cape Town and Johannesburg Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (Tuesday, 31st October 2023) – October represents a watershed month for South African Airways. Not only is the airline launching its first intercontinental flight to Sao Paulo in Brazil since it took to the skies again two years ago, but it has also taken delivery of another two leased A320s to boost its domestic fleet.

With air travel playing a crucial role in connecting the country locally, regionally, and intercontinentally, the launch of new routes and the bolstering of the national airline’s fleet are critical to building relationships and providing access to intercontinental trade.

The Brazil route will facilitate numerous export and import opportunities and augment existing trade relations between the two countries. SAA will operate a wide body fleet with sufficient space to load palletised cargo and provide faster movement of goods, whether it is general cargo, pharmaceuticals, or high value cargo, boosting the movement of time-sensitive goods.

Reflecting on how far the airline has come over the past two years in its mission to re-entrench itself as the country’s proud national carrier and flag bearer, SAA interim CEO, Prof John Lamola, says when SAA took to the skies again in 2021, it had a solid strategy in place. “It has not been an easy journey, but the more than 9,000 commercial flights under our belts to date bear testimony to the success of our strategy.”

“The choice of Brazil as our first intercontinental route was informed not only by rigorous economic and market analysis, but also by considerations of the strategic linkages of South Africa in the context of the country’s membership of BRICS.”

When the airline commenced operations in 2021, it started off with a mere three routes. Now, it flies to 10 international destinations, 3 domestic and 1 intercontinental route. SAA has built its fleet to incorporate eight aircraft. By March 2024, it expects to fly more destinations with a fleet of 13 aircraft.

This is good news for the country’s travel and tourism sector, which is expected to grow at an average rate of 7.6% annually, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council’s Economic Impact Report.

The inaugural flight to São Paulo took off on Tuesday, 31 October at 12:55pm from Cape Town while the first flight from Johannesburg will take place on Monday, 6 November. Cape Town will operate on Tuesdays and Saturdays, with Johannesburg flights operating on Mondays and Thursdays.

Lamola says South Africa’s transport infrastructure has a significant impact on the growth of the economy and the efficiency of the country’s business transactions. “A fully functional and efficient national airline is critical for bolstering South Africa’s trade relations and opening up future growth prospects.”

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

About South Africa Airways

With almost 90 years in the skies, South African Airways (SAA) is the most awarded Skytrax airline in Africa and the proud carrier of the South African flag, linking domestic, regional, and international destinations. SAA flies from Johannesburg to Accra, Durban, Harare, Kinshasa, Lusaka, Lagos, Mauritius, Windhoek, Victoria Falls, Malawi and the airline flies to Soa Paulo from Cape Town and Johannesburg on 31 October 2023 and 6 November 2023, respectively.

About SAA Voyager

SAA Voyager is a frequent flyer loyalty programme for SAA, which was launched in 1994 and offers its more than one-million members the opportunity to earn and spend Miles (the programmes reward currency) from 48 programme partners. SAA Voyager boasts more than 30 airline partnerships, including the Star Alliance global network, which gives members access to over 50 global hubs to offer smooth connections across a world-leading global network. SAA was the first African airline to join Star Alliance in 2006.

SAA prides itself on being “more than an airline” and a critical part of the South African story.

26 October 2023 - Minister Pravin Gordhan: Relaunch of South African Airways trans-continental route between South Africa and Brazil Collapsed Content

Remarks by the Minister of Public Enterprises, Mr Pravin Gordhan at the Relaunch of South African Airways (SAA) Trans-Continental Route between South Africa and Brazil

Honorable South African Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille,
Honorable Vice Minister of Tourism of the Federative Republic of Brazil, Ana Carla Machado Lopes,
Members and Representatives of the Diplomatic Corps,
South African Airways Board Chairperson, Mr Derek Hanekom, South African Airways Chief Executive Officer, Prof. John Lamola, South African Airways management and staff,
Members of Parliament (South Africa), Members of the media,
Esteemed guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Good evening.

SAA is in many ways an entity rising from the ashes of State Capture like a Phoenix. Because a few years ago we thought that with all the damage that had been done to SAA it wouldn’t survive. And there were many who thought that the best way to deal with the future of SAA was to liquidate it.

Today we are running with an SAA that is still very much alive, that has been brought out of ICU, that is expanding in a systematic, gradual, nonetheless careful way.

So we can proudly say that SAA is back on the scene.

And there are many who are afraid of SAA’s arrival so to speak, both on the international side but also within South Africa itself because in the next year or two, you will see a lot more SAA planes on the tarmac.

The tarmac will not only be full of blue and pink, but it will also be full of SAA colours as well.

Those of you who know about tourism and aviation would admit that suddenly prices of tickets from South Africa to elsewhere in the world have become much more expensive. There might be some manipulation or management of seats that are available. They are always full for one reason or another.

So these international flights, transcontinental flights like the one we are relaunching today are going to be quite important for the South African consumer because competition is supposed to bring prices down.

But to reflect upon the recent 10 years, how this institution was damaged, I want to quote Chief Justice Zondo, who said in his findings on SAA and its units:

“State capture thrived … because they were eventually being run, not in the interests of the people of South Africa for whom they were established, but in the interests of a select few who wielded power inside and outside of the entities.”

So in that period of about 10 years the government had to put in some R40 billion into SAA, and notwithstanding that, by December 2019 we were awoken by the board of SAA having to decide to put SSAA into business rescue.

Then came the COVID-19 pandemic which closed not only South Africa’s borders but borders all over the world, and that began to impact globally the aviation industry as well.

But notwithstanding State Capture, the COVID-19 pandemic, SAA is where it is today, and what we can see ahead of ourselves, as far as the recovery of SAA is a tremendously bright future if we manage the current expansion properly but also conclude the deal with the strategic equity partner. The deal with the strategic equity partner – that should be concluded either late this year or early next year – our wish is for late this year.

That would add more muscle, make a lot more money available to SAA to expand, and will multiply its capacity to take South Africans out of South Africa, but also bring tourists into South Africa from all parts of the world as it once did but now in a financially sustainable way.

So this flight to São Paulo, ladies and gentlemen, is an important event because it signifies an important gesture. All those who critically watch what we are doing with SAA at the moment, would know that there are many naysayers around.

There are many people in the industry, and sometimes outside the industry, who wish it wouldn’t work but as Prof. Lamola (interim SAA CEO) said earlier on, we are South African.

And South Africans are known. Hopefully this Saturday as well (when the Springboks take on New Zealand in the 2023 Rugby World Cup). We are known for our resilience. We are known for our sense of vision. We will have our pitfalls every now and again. Being human, there would be mistakes as well.

So hopefully this time on Saturday we are not going to win with one point. So SAA is also not going win by one plane to become a success that we are looking for.

So this is a sign that more intercontinental flights, not only through code shares, but by SAA in its own right, should be around the corner. São Paulo is just a start, and we need to see how we can expand the network because as I said earlier on, the beneficiaries will be South Africans at the end of the day.

But through this process of recovery, what we have been able to do is to firstly establish that there is no more money that is going to come from your taxes that is going to go into SAA like the R40 billion that went in over a 10-year period.

SAA must survive on its own strength. It must survive on the capital that will be provided by the strategic equity partner. And it must grow organically into whatever shape it is going to take into the future but one that is certainly bigger than what we have in the present situation.

The second point is that through the business rescue process, SAA’s balance sheet is not encumbered in any kind of way. All the muck has been cleared out, and the state has taken responsibility for that – R10.5 billion has been spent – R2 billion of which is what was used in September 2021 to get operations that we see currently getting off the ground. So the state contributed in some way in that particular regard.

And those that lost their jobs through the business rescue process, the state also provided for very generous voluntary severance packages so that each of the former employees of SAA had enough to survive on, had enough to look after their families, and had enough to actually start a different career, or if they wished to start a business, which many have.

But equally important, as has been pointed out, that you have a family of 2 000 people that are working within SAA, all of those jobs would have gone. It took 3-1/2 years of very hard work, particularly in the Department initially, to ensure that we steer this process, which is fairly unique.

But it is a signal to the investment community in South Africa that reforms are possible in South Africa, that we can execute just through South African talent these very complex deals, and complex reform process in state-owned entities.

At the moment, today there are a lot of political clouds around the true nature of the crisis we face, the recovery path that we actually have follow, and the successes that we are piling up.

Although (the successes) they are very small, they are very important. They signal to South Africans and to the investment community that structural reforms and particularly among state- owned entities are absolutely possible and they can be successfully executed by South Africans as is the case with SAA itself.

SAA is great as far as internal dynamics are concerned. But our colleagues in SAA at the Board level, and at the management level, and the staff level are actually carrying the flag, and that flag is a signal to people outside of South Africa and in South Africa that you can have confidence in our country, that there is hope in this country, and you can make that hope a reality if you work hard enough and work with the right integrity.

But we recognize that human beings have this tendency to be greedy, they have a tendency to take short cuts, they have a tendency to fill their pockets before they actually do their job. So whether it is here or elsewhere in the world, the same phenomenon applies as well. When we have the right integrity amongst our leadership, then we will make sure that these organisations move in the right direction.

So to the Vice Minister of Tourism from Brazil, we want to say thank you for hosting SAA on the other side. I have every intention of visiting Brazil – to make a short trip to Brasilia -- to meet some of your ministers as well so that we consolidate the relationship that we have between South Africa and Brazil, between President Ramaphosa and President Lula, for whom we have very, very high regard because he has done some remarkable things that have benefited the Brazilian population. And I am sure we can learn from each other in that regard.

So finally, congratulations to all those who made this possible. Congratulations to the SAA team. You are flying not only in South Africa and on the African continent but now across the Atlantic Ocean. And with that flag you are sending important messages to various constituencies that we can do better in South Africa than we might be doing at the moment.

I Thank You

https://www.gov.za/speeches/remarks-minister-public-enterprises-mr-pravin-gordhan-relaunch-south-african-airways-saa

Media enquiries:
Ellis Mnyandu
E-mail: ellis.mnyandu@dpe.gov.za(link sends e-mail)
Tel: 012 431 1228
Cell: 079 828 7779

Issued by:

Department of Public Enterprises

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Department of Public Enterprises

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18 October 2023 - Customers do not require a Visa to travel between Ghana and South Africa Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (Wednesday, 18^th October 2023) – South African Airways (SAA) notes with delight that South African and Ghanaian travelers do not need visas when travelling to one another’s countries.

This follows the implementation of a visa waiver agreement between the governments of South Africa and Ghana for ordinary passport holders, commencing on 1 November 2023.

This means travelers may transit through, depart, and stay in the territory of both countries for a cumulative period of up to 90 days without having to apply a visa. If the period of 90 days is exhausted within a 12-month period, passport holders will have to apply for a visa to enter South Africa.

SAA flies between Johannesburg and Accra 3 times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

SAA interim CEO, Professor John Lamola, who is also the recently elected deputy chairperson of the Airlines Association of Southern Africa’s (AASA), says, “The move is good news for the promotion of intra-African connectivity and the development of tourism and trade on the continent. Making possible the ease of travel within Africa is aligned with the call by AASA, amongst other industry bodies.”

With SAA’s direct flights, both South African and Ghanian travelers can look forward to spending time in both countries that boasts rich forestry, beautiful sandy beaches, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural experiences. To book your flights log onto www.flysaa.com

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

12 October 2023 - South African Airways and Sun Express sign Damp Lease Agreement Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (Thursday, 12^th October 2023) - South African Airways (SAA) and SunExpress, have entered into a damp lease agreement that will allow SAA to operate a schedule utilising two SunExpress aircraft for a six-month period, commencing mid-October 2023. The first of the 2 aircraft was received yesterday.

Sun Express, is a joint venture between Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines. Sun Express boasts among the youngest fleets in Europe and was named Europe’s Best Leisure Airline in 2023 at the World Airline Awards and in 2022 was awarded World’s Best Leisure Airline in the same awards.

SAA has entered a “damp lease” agreement with Sun Express, the lease covers the provision of aircraft, maintenance, and cockpit crew, whilst the aircraft will be served by SAA’s cabin crew to maintain SAA’s customer service standards. For maintenance of these aircraft, SunExpress has contracted SAA Technical (SAAT) to perform any required work, at its cost, on these aircraft whilst they are operated by SAA.

Under the agreement, two Boeing 737-800 aircraft from Sun Express fleet will operate flights from Johannesburg on behalf of SAA during the airline’s high demand period. The first aircraft will start operations in mid-October and a second aircraft will be added depending on the capacity demand by SAA.

According to John Lamola, Chief Executive of SAA “This unique ACMI is a short-term tactical intervention in SAA’s fleet strategy, as we are working on the deployment of our long-term dry-leased four A320s. We are pleased with our relationship with SunExpress and are excited with its potential as we both manage the seasonality of passenger traffic in our respective geographic markets.”

Tebogo Tsimane, Chief Commercial Officer expressed appreciation at the way SAA’s loyal customer base has adapted to this temporal experimentation with SAA’s brand since the airline has started utilizing ACMI fleet acquisition strategy this year.

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com

26 September 2023 - SAA launches route to Abidjan Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (Tuesday, 26^th September 2023) – South African Airways (SAA) is delighted to announce the launch of Abidjan in Côte d’Ivoire, its 12^th destination in the continent. The route, which is in line with the airline’s plans to grow its footprint in Africa, will be operated via Accra using its modern Airbus A330-300 with full-lie flat business class seats.

Bookings open for sale on 28^th September 2023, with the launch of the first flight out of Johannesburg on Tuesday, 14 November 2023.

SAA will fly to Félix Houphouët Boigny International Airport in Abidjan three times a week, departing Johannesburg on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 11h00 and arriving in Abidjan at 17h00, with a 55-minute stopover in Accra.

SAA Chief Commercial Officer, Mr Tebogo Tsimane, says the new route is exciting news for SAA and brings its destinations on the African continent up to 12. “The Abidjan route is an integral component of our West Africa expansion strategy.” He says the schedule of flights is suitable for leisure and business travellers. “It also allows Voyager members yet another opportunity to earn miles, at one SAA Voyager mile for every R1.60 they spend.”

In addition, this route will also provide an airfreight link between Accra, Abidjan and Johannesburg therefore enhancing the trade links between these three major cities with the rest of the SAA network.

Known as the Paris of Africa, Abidjan is well known for its coffee, cocoa, timber, bananas, pineapples, and manganese exports. The third-largest French speaking city in the world, it offers leisure and business travellers a wealth of sites to explore such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d'Ivoire, the Jardin botanique de Bingerville and the Abokouamekro National Park.

Interim CEO, Professor John Lamola, says, “Adding Abidjan to its route schedule is another feather in SAA’s cap. Located on the West Coast of Africa, Abidjan is also an ideal location for connecting traffic to European destinations. Lamola added, “Our decision to implement a service to Abidjan is based on a rigorous analysis of the viability of the route, with sustainability at the heart of our strategic approach since our restart.”

ENDS

Abidjan fun facts:

Country: Cote d’Ivoire

Area: 2,119km2

Population: 5,686,000 million

Language: French, as well as local indigenous languages such as Baoulé, Dioula, Dan, Anyin and Cebaara Senufo

Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)

Elevation: 18 metres

Time zone: UTC +0 GMT

Dialing area code: +225

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

About South Africa Airways

With almost 90 years in the skies, South African Airways (SAA) is the most awarded Skytrax airline in Africa and the proud carrier of the South African flag, linking domestic, regional, and international destinations. SAA flies from Johannesburg to Accra, Durban, Harare, Lusaka, Lagos, Mauritius, Windhoek, Victoria Falls, Malawi and will fly to Soa Paulo from Cape Town and Johannesburg on 31 October 2023 and 6 November 2023, respectively.

About SAA Voyager

SAA prides itself on being “more than an airline” and a critical part of the South African story.

01 September 2023 - South African Airways Voyager launches innovative parking partnership at OR Tambo Collapsed Content

JOHANNESBURG (1^st September 2023) - South African Airways Voyager, the loyalty programme of South African Airways, has announced an innovative new partnership with Airport Parking Joburg (APJ) - which will allow Voyager members to earn and redeem SAA Voyager Miles when using services offered by APJ at OR Tambo International Airport.

“By partnering with Airport Parking Joburg, we are now able to offer our members an additional opportunity to earn Voyager Miles, while using services like parking, security and valet car wash when travelling. Strategically, it expands our range of partners and is aligned with SAA Voyager’s plans to expand our partner base in non-airline services,” said SAA’s Chief Commercial Officer, Mr Tebogo Tsimane.

Theuns Viljoen, the Managing Director of Airport Parking Joburg said: “We are privileged to be part of the SAA Voyager programme and very excited by the opportunities this partnership presents. The foundation of our strategy is personalisation. This partnership with SAA Voyager allows us to deliver on this strategy to meet the very specific needs of individuals that fly out of OR Tambo Airport.”

The new partnership is expected to expand to all domestic airports over time.

The earning structure for bookings made with Airport Parking Joburg:

Blue Voyager members - earn 1 Voyager Mile for every R10.00 spent
Silver Voyager members - earn 1 Voyager Mile for every R9.00 spent
Gold Voyager members – earn 1 Voyager Mile for every R8.00 spent
Platinum Voyager members – earn 1 Voyager Mile for every R7.00 spent
Lifetime Platinum Voyager members – earn 1 Voyager Mile for every R7.00 spent
Go to www.flysaa.com and click on Voyager for more information

About SAA Voyager:

South African Airways (SAA) Voyager is a loyalty programme owned by SAA (SOC) Limited and the frequent flyer programme for SAA. Launched in 1994, the programme offers its more than one million members the opportunity to earn and spend Miles (the programme’s reward currency) from 48 programme partners. The programme boasts more than 30 airline partnerships, including the Star Alliance global network, which gives members access to more than 1 300 destinations in 190 countries.

About AIRPORT PARKING JOBURG:

Airport Parking Joburg, as the name says, is a company that offers Parking and Car security to travellers travelling out of OR Tambo they do not only offer parking but also Valet Services. They were established in 2016. Over the past seven years, they have grown into one of the top organizations in the industry not by name but also by the service they provide.

They service 1550 clients a month with substantial growth weekly. They have a well-balanced group of professional drivers that ensure all vehicles are safely brought to storage. Their holding depot can take over 500 vehicles safely parked undercover with a 24/7 security team looking after them.

Airport Parking Joburg is known as a company that provides not just service but by the professional manner, they treat their client.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com

SAA social media:

• Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA

• Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa

• LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa

• Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

28 August 2023 - Star Alliance Los Angeles lounge named North America's leading airport lounge at the World Travel Awards 2023 Collapsed Content

Star Alliance’s Los Angeles airport lounge has won the title of North America’s Leading Airport Lounge for the fourth year running at the World Travel Awards 2023. The award was announced at the Caribbean & The Americas Gala Ceremony held on the picturesque island of Saint Lucia on August 26, 2023.

Commenting on the win, Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias said: “At Star Alliance, we are all about making air travel more stress-free and frictionless. Lounges play a vital role in enhancing the airport journey, and our Star Alliance LAX lounge has been at the front of the pack since it first opened. We are delighted that once again, it has been named one of the best in the business.”

“My thanks go out to the dedicated team that keeps our LAX lounge running in tip-top shape from morning to night, as well as to our Star Alliance member carriers for working with us to make this lounge a success for so many years.”

The Star Alliance Los Angeles airport lounge is one of the world’s very best airport lounges, and consistently wins prestigious industry awards each year. Most recently, it was named the World’s Best Airline Alliance Lounge by Skytrax in June 2023.

Boasting an outdoor terrace with firepits, a water wall and panoramic runway views towards the Hollywood Hills, the sprawling 18,000 square foot lounge captivates with cool Californian charm during the day, and transforms into a vibrant space as evening falls. For those preferring a peaceful moment before their flight, the lounge offers numerous areas to relax, work and dine as they wish.

The World Travel Awards acknowledge and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries. It was established in 1993 and is recognised as one of the most prestigious award programmes in travel and tourism.

About Star Alliance

The Star Alliance network was established in 1997 as the first truly global airline alliance, based on a customer value proposition of global reach, worldwide recognition and seamless service. Since inception, it has offered the largest and most comprehensive airline network, with a focus on improving customer experience across the Alliance journey.

The member airlines are: Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, Air China, Air India, Air New Zealand, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian, Avianca, Brussels Airlines, Copa Airlines, Croatia Airlines, EGYPTAIR, Ethiopian Airlines, EVA Air, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Singapore Airlines, South African Airways, SWISS, TAP Air Portugal, THAI, Turkish Airlines, and United.

Overall, the Star Alliance network currently offers more than 16,000 daily flights to almost 1,200 airports in 186 countries. Further connecting flights are offered by Star Alliance Connecting Partners Juneyao Airlines and THAI Smile Airways.

Star Alliance Press Office:

+49 69 96375 183

mediarelations@staralliance.com

Visit our website or connect with us on social media:

16 August 2023 - SAA increases connections to Europe through codeshare agreement with Lufthansa Airlines Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (Wednesday, 16th August 2023) - South African Airways (SAA) customers can now fly to Frankfurt and connect to a host of European destinations thanks to a new codeshare agreement between Lufthansa Airlines and SAA. The SAA codeshare on Lufthansa is now open for sale.

The agreement allows customers to book a long-haul trip with SAA to European destinations serviced by Lufthansa from Johannesburg.

Furthermore, SAA is excited to announce that once regulatory approval is granted, Swiss Airlines which also belongs to the Lufthansa Group will codeshare with SAA. Customers will similarly be able to book on the SAA codeshare on Swiss to flights out of Johannesburg to Zurich and onward to other European destinations on a single ticket.

“We are thrilled to resume our codeshare agreement with the Lufthansa and soon with Swiss airlines, who are both members of STAR Alliance, the largest Alliance amongst airlines” said SAA Chief Commercial Officer, Tebogo Tsimane. “It is a key step in reconnecting our travelers from around the continent to a wider range of international destinations through their SAA ticket and earn Voyager miles.”

A codeshare agreement means that customers will only need to book a single ticket and have their checked-in luggage carried seamlessly to their destination. A single ticket is more cost-effective, and the codeshare agreement means that travellers do not have to worry about the logistics of travelling between continents on multiple airlines.

“We are very pleased to announce that we have re-established our codeshare agreement with South African Airways,” said Matthias Lefèvre, General Manager of Sales at Lufthansa Group Airlines for Southern Africa.

“Building on our long-term partnership with SAA allows us to offer greater flexibility and a larger variety to our customers in South Africa. Lufthansa and SWISS passengers can add a connecting flight from Johannesburg to Cape Town or Durban within the same booking.”

Airlines within the Lufthansa Group offers more than 35 weekly connections from South Africa to their hubs in Europe.

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

About South Africa Airways

With almost 90 years in the skies, South African Airways (SAA) is the most awarded Skytrax airline in Africa and the proud carrier of the South African flag, linking domestic, regional, and international destinations. SAA flies from Johannesburg to Accra, Durban, Harare, Lusaka, Lagos, Mauritius, Windhoek, Victoria Falls, Malawi and will fly to Soa Paulo from Cape Town and Johannesburg on 31 October 2023 and 6 November 2023, respectively.

About SAA Voyager

04 August 2023 - SAA Deepens footprint in USA and Canada Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (Friday, 4^th August 2023) - South African Airways (SAA) is expanding its reach into North America through the appointment of a General Sales Agent (GSA) for the region. The appointed agent, Discover the World (DTW) will sell passenger space on behalf of South Africa’s national flag carrier.

This partnership is expected to see the airline grow revenue across North America by raising awareness with more trade and corporate partners.

SAA’s Chief Executive Officer, Prof. John Lamola said the move is part of the airline’s long-term growth strategy that is yielding fruit. Prof. Lamola says activating the partnership with DTW in North America is another strong sign that the airline is regaining its international stature.

“SAA is pleased to once again be able to welcome our valued travellers from North America. We look forward to treating them to the warm South African hospitality that we are celebrated for,” said Lamola.

SAA was recently awarded Best Cabin Crew in Africa for 2023 by global airline and airport review and ranking consultancy, Skytrax, at its World Airline Awards held in Paris.

Aiden Walsh Head of Airline Development at Discover the World says they are excited about the partnership.

“We are delighted to grow our partnership with SAA to cover the North American markets. Our excellent sales and marketing teams in both the USA and Canada will be focusing on reintroducing the fantastic SAA Brand to our trade partners. Discover the World already represents SAA in the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland and Germany.”

END

About South Africa Airways

With almost 90 years in the skies, South African Airways (SAA) is the most awarded Skytrax airline in Africa and the proud carrier of the South African flag, linking domestic, regional, and international destinations. SAA flies from Johannesburg to Accra, Durban, Harare, Lusaka, Lagos, Mauritius, Windhoek, Victoria Falls, Malawi and will fly to Soa Paulo from Cape Town and Johannesburg on 31 October 2023 and 6 November 2023, respectively.

Since first taking to the skies in 1934, SAA has grown to include a passenger airline, a cargo transport service, and related services provided through its wholly owned subsidiaries, SAA Technical (SAAT) and Air Chefs. While SAAT delivers high-quality maintenance services, major airframe checks, engine overhauls, mechanical components, avionics, and line maintenance to SAA and third parties, Air Chefs provides in-flight, airline lounges and other catering services to the airline and third parties.

About SAA Voyager

SAA Voyager is a frequent flyer loyalty programme for SAA. Launched in 1994 the programme offers its more than one-million members the opportunity to earn and spend Miles (the programmes reward currency) from 48 programme partners. The programme boasts more than 30 airline partnerships, including the Star Alliance global network, which gives members access to more than 1 300 destinations in 190 countries. SAA was the first African airline to join Star Alliance in 2006.

SAA prides itself on being “more than an airline” and a critical part of the South African story.

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

25 July 2023 - SAA Welcomes the latest High Court Ruling against Airlink's claims Collapsed Content

Johannesburg, (25^th July 2023) – South African Airways (SAA), has welcomed today’s ruling by the High Court in Johannesburg that SAA does not owe funds to Airlink beyond SAA’s business rescue (BR) process.

In its ruling today, the High Court upheld two previous judgements on the same matter - by the Supreme Court of Appeal and the High Court in 2020.

Airlink argued that payment owed for flown and un-flown tickets before SAA went into business rescue in 2019 should not be treated as “pre-commencement debts” under the business rescue process, which would make Airlink a concurrent creditor under the BR plan.

In the latest judgement today, the court again found that Airlink’s claims have no merit, and the application was dismissed with costs. The court found that Airlink was aware as per previous rulings that it was a concurrent creditor and was also aware that it had to submit a claim under the business rescue process.

SAA Interim CEO, Professor John Lamola said, “We welcome the judgement and hope this finally lays this matter to rest. SAA’s journey through business rescue was both painful and necessary.

Prof Lamola added, “The airline you see today is a very different one that has had to rebuild itself from the ground up. Today’s judgement is another step in helping us conclusively turn the page on that chapter as we move toward becoming a more sustainable, resilient business, with new route on the horizon.”

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

10 July 2023 - SAA Technical leads the way with landing gear overhaul Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (Monday, 10^th July 2023) - That reassuring bump as the landing gear hits the tarmac, is something that most air passengers take for granted. This complex piece of equipment ensures a safe landing every time the aircraft hits the runway.

In line with its dedication to safety standards, South African Airways Technical (SAAT), a subsidiary of South African Airways (SAA), has set the standard by overhauling a Boeing 737-800 aircraft landing gear shipset in record time. Specialized maintenance is often a time-consuming task, a process that typically takes as long as 60 days by industry standards. SAAT has set a record of 40 days to overhaul a set of landing gears.

Despite initial reservations that the task was only achievable outside South Africa, SAAT was awarded the project and set about completing the overhaul ahead of schedule and within budget.

James Nthulana, Production Leader at SAAT, has enjoyed a 28-year-long career at SAAT. Beginning his tenure as a technician and working his way up to becoming a Production Leader, the project holds great significance for Nthulana who has been working on landing gears for over 21 years.

“Completing this project within 40 days is one of the most significant achievements in my career, and I attribute it to effective communication, team commitment and thorough planning. This accomplishment has put us on the map as one of the few facilities in Africa with such capabilities and is a proof point to manufacturers.”

On any given day, an estimated 90,000 planes take off and land around the world. An aircraft's landing gear is a critical component that is required to be exceptionally durable, as it is not immune to wear and tear and is vulnerable to corrosion and damage. The landing gear is also instrumental in supporting the aircraft's weight whilst on the ground and absorbing the impact of landing and providing stability during taxiing.

Interim Chief Executive Officer at SAAT, Wellington Nyuswa, expressed his pride in the SAAT team’s accomplishment, adding that it demonstrates SAAT’s ability to turn the business around and grow together with SAA to form an organisation that South Africa can be proud of. He further stated that this project is testament to SAAT’s recovery plan of becoming a world class Maintenance Repair and Overhaul centre of excellence.

“Our strategic plan is to expand our landing gear shop and back-shop capabilities while focusing on sustainable profitability and efficiency. With SAAT now operating with an organizational structure that is fit for purpose, we believe this will empower and motivate the team to continuously look for ways to improve and make SAAT the industry benchmark.”

[1] Air Traffic Around the Globe Over 24 Hours

[ENDS]

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com

[1] Air Traffic Around the Globe Over 24 Hours

08 July 2023 | SAA fleet update effective on selected domestic flights for a limited period Collapsed Content

Johannesburg, (8th July 2023) – The ongoing expansion of the destinations flown by South African Airways (SAA), as well as industry-wide constraints with aircraft availability has led SAA to enter into a temporary agreement to operate a fully serviced leased aircraft for a limited period.

Commencing Sunday, 9th July 23, SAA will operate certain domestic flights using a leased Boeing 737, high density aircraft.

SAA will operate a hybrid fleet service, aircraft with economy class only along with our normal full-service aircraft. This will provide customers an opportunity to book on a range of specialized prices for a limited period only.

Interim Chief Executive Officer, Prof. John Lamola, says, “We have gone the distance providing our customers with a comfortable cabin experience in our limited Economy Class. Our premium customers, already booked, will continue to enjoy the full range of seamless and comfortable services, including priority check-in and priority boarding. Access to SAA lounges is available to eligible individuals, Standard baggage allowance as well as Fast track where available.”

This leased aircraft is scheduled for a limited period, whilst SAA ready itself for growth in line with our customer expectations.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

29 June 2023 - SAA returns to Sao Paulo from both Cape Town and Johannesburg Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (Thursday, 29 June 2023) - South African Airways (SAA) is thrilled to announce the airlines first intercontinental route to Sao Paulo, Brazil, since the airline returned to the skies in September 2021.

Bookings open for sale today, 29^th June 2023, with launch flights out of Cape Town on Tuesday, 31^st October and from Johannesburg on Monday, 6^th November 2023.

SAA will fly to Guarulhos International Airport in São Paulo four times a week, twice out of Cape Town (Tuesdays and Saturdays) and twice out of Johannesburg (Mondays and Thursdays).

During the Northern winter season (October to December), SA 0226 will depart Cape Town at 12h55 and arrive in Sao Paulo at 16h35. The return flight out of Sao Paulo SA 0227, will depart at 18h05 and arrive in Cape Town at 06h40.

From Johannesburg, SA 0222 will depart at 11h20 and arrive in Sao Paulo at 16h15 and the return flight SA 0223 will depart Soa Paulo at 17h45 arriving in Johannesburg at 07h45.

SAA’s Chief Commercial Officer, Mr Tebogo Tsimane, said “We have created an effective schedule which is ideal for both business and leisure travellers and our schedule is fantastic for connecting traffic.” Our Voyager members can also earn miles at an accelerated rate when flying on an SAA operated flight, 1 SAA Voyager mile for every R1.60 spend and the accumulation of miles, counts towards Elite status, Tsimane added.

São Paulo - Brazil’s most populous city - is also the country’s financial center and one of the biggest financial hubs in the world. It is an ideal destination for business or leisure, offering a vast selection of first-rated museums, cultural centers, theatres, and cinemas. It also boasts world-class nightclubs, bars, and restaurants. The various transport networks, including taxis, buses, subways, and railway lines are well served in both countries.

Interim CEO, Professor John Lamola, says, “We are overjoyed to announce São Paulo as our first international destination since the airline successfully emerged from an intensive Business Rescue process and Covid-19 lockdown. It also marks our return of our long-haul service out of Cape Town.” The Teams at SAA are working hard behind the scenes to gear our operations for this much anticipated route launch to South America,” said Lamola.

“Our decision to begin the relaunch of our long-haul service with São Paulo was taken based on a rigorous analysis of the viability of the route. Sustainability has been at the heart of SAA’s approach since our restart.”

As the national flag carrier, SAA prides itself on bringing South African hospitality to international routes, and travelers to and from São Paulo route can expect to experience our award-winning customer service,” added Lamola.

SAA has appointed Air Promotion Group (APG) in Brazil as its General Sales Agent (GSA).

Sao Paulo fast facts:

Country: Brazil

Region: Southeast

State: São Paulo

Language: Portuguese

Currency: Brazilian Real (BRL)

Elevation: 760 meters above sea level

Population: 21.1 million

Time zone: UTC-3 (winter), UTC-2 (summer)

Dialing area

code: (+55) 11

Naming convention

for its people: Paulistano

Ends

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

22 June 2023 - SAA Team named 'BEST CABIN CREW IN AFRICA' for 2023 Collapsed Content

Johannesburg, (Thursday, 22^nd June 2023) - South African Airways (SAA) has been awarded Best Cabin Crew in Africa for 2023 by global airline and airport review and ranking consultancy, Skytrax, at its World Airline Awards held in Paris on Tuesday.

The annual Skytrax World Airline Awards - widely regarded as the ‘Oscars’ of the airline industry - adjudicates experiences of air travelers based on millions of surveys discreetly conducted globally.

In addition to receiving recognition for having the best cabin crew on the continent, SAA was also awarded second place for Best Airline Staff in Africa.

Notably, even though SAA came out as on the 3^rd spot in the Best Airline in Africa category the award effectively affirmed that it is still the best airline in South Africa.

SAA’s Interim Chief Executive Officer, Professor John Lamola, notes that “Despite the challenges our growing airline had to navigate during the past year, our customers are with us, appreciating our effort in propelling SAA into a world class airline. This eagerness at supporting us and faith in the future of SAA was demonstrated in our being awarded the 4^th place in the World’s Most Improved Airline category”.

There are over 5000 airlines in the world. SAA is now ranked 72nd in Skytrax’s Top 100 World Airlines, improving from 79th place in 2022.

“Given everything that SAA has gone through over the past few years, being recognised through these coveted industry global awards is proof that the efforts of our staff and shareholder at repositioning SAA as a world class, leading African airline are not in vain”, Lamola adds.

In congratulating SAA’s air hostesses and stewards on this exceptional achievement, the Interim CEO reminded that “At SAA, we do not see ourselves merely as an airline, but as South Africa’s ambassador on wings who are focused on regaining the status of one of the best airlines in the world.”

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

05 June 2023 - Star Alliance names Theo Panagiotoulias as New CEO Collapsed Content

FRANKFURT/SINGAPORE, June 5, 2023  Star Alliance, the world’s first and largest global airline alliance, is pleased to announce that Theo Panagiotoulias has been chosen to become its next CEO.

Mr Panagiotoulias has more than 25 years’ international experience in the airline and aviation industry. He joins Star Alliance from Hawaiian Airlines, where he had been Senior VP for Global Sales and Alliances since 2014. Previously, Mr Panagiotoulias was VP and GM (Asia Pacific) at travel technology provider Sabre Corporation, as well as a 15-year veteran of American Airlines, where he held several commercial, operational and management positions. His full biography is appended.

“On behalf of the board of Star Alliance, I would like to congratulate Theo for being named the next CEO of Star Alliance,” said Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines and Chairman of the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board. “Theo’s international commercial and airline experience have given him a good understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our industry today. I believe he is the right person to lead Star Alliance into the future.”

“Star Alliance connects the world,” said Mr Panagiotoulias. “More than 200 million customers fly with its 26 member airlines each year, on more than 16,000 flights each day. The Alliance has also led the revolution to promote a more seamless passenger experience. I am honoured that I’ve been chosen to lead the Star Alliance team and work directly with our 26 member carriers, as we continue to innovate as the world’s leading airline alliance.”

Mr Panagiotoulias will succeed Charlotta Wieland, who has been seconded from SAS – Scandinavian Airlines to serve as Star Alliance’s interim CEO since January 2023. With Mr Panagiotoulias coming on board, Ms Wieland will return to SAS, and also rejoin Star Alliance’s Alliance Management Board as the representative for SAS. Mr Panagiotoulias’ appointment is expected to take effect within the coming months, upon the completion of certain administrative processes and clearances.

“On behalf of Star Alliance and its member carriers, I would like to thank Charlotta for her service to Star Alliance as interim CEO, and welcome her back to her seat on the Alliance Management Board,” said Mr Kirby.

Star Alliance was named the World’s Best Airline Alliance by Skytrax in 2022. It aims to facilitate a seamless, high-quality traveller experience across its 26 member carriers, with smooth transfers across an extensive global network, together with rewards and recognition for frequent international travellers.

In 2022, the Alliance celebrated its 25^th anniversary as the longest-running international airline alliance. It also marked several important milestones, including the launch of the world’s first airline alliance credit card with HSBC Australia, and the formation of an intermodal travel model, which extends the Alliance’s network beyond air travel to other transport ecosystems, such as rail networks.

Click here for Biography

About Star Alliance

The Star Alliance network was established in 1997 as the first truly global airline alliance, based on a customer value proposition of global reach, worldwide recognition and seamless service. Since inception, it has offered the largest and most comprehensive airline network, with a focus on improving customer experience across the Alliance journey.

The member airlines are: Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, Air China, Air India, Air New Zealand, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian, Avianca, Brussels Airlines, Copa Airlines, Croatia Airlines, EGYPTAIR, Ethiopian Airlines, EVA Air, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Singapore Airlines, South African Airways, SWISS, TAP Air Portugal, THAI, Turkish Airlines, and United Airlines.

Overall, the Star Alliance network currently offers more than 16,000 daily flights to almost 1,200 airports in 186 countries. Further connecting flights are offered by Star Alliance Connecting Partners Juneyao Airlines and THAI Smile Airways.

Star Alliance Press Office:

+49 69 96375 183

mediarelations@staralliance.com

Visit our website or connect with us on social media

05 May 2023 - SAA announces fleet expansion to relaunch long-haul routes Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (Friday, 5^th May 2023) - South African Airways (SAA) is pleased to announce that it has been given the green light for a significant expansion of its fleet to pave the way for the national carrier to relaunch international routes and increase seat capacity for its regional and domestic destinations.

Interim CEO, Professor John Lamola, says the airline’s plan to lease six new aircraft has been approved by the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Public Enterprises. “The aircraft will be delivered before the end of this calendar year, and the planes include a wide-body aircraft as well as five narrow-body aircraft - all of them Airbus equipment,” Lamola said.

“We are excited, as SAA, to lay the groundwork for the relaunch of our first international route since coming out of business rescue and since the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. We will announce the new route in the coming few weeks, and we will open commercial marketing and sales for it.”

Lamola says the terms and conditions attached to the deals for the new aircraft are along the same competitive, transparent, and cost-effective lines that have characterised the ‘new’ SAA since it emerged from Business Rescue in September 2021.

“Currently a Request for Proposals is out for four A320 narrow-body aircraft. The other two - an A330 and A320 have already been secured from the lessor community on the same terms as the ones issued in the RFP.”

“The four aircraft that we are ordering will all be deployed by September 2023. This is a significant boost for the domestic and regional markets and underscores our commitment to expanding our route network and increasing our frequency in the African market. It will also ensure that the equilibrium between the supply of seats and the flow of traffic will benefit our passengers,” Lamola added.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

17 March 2023 - National shutdown protest action planned for 20 March 2023 Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (17 March 2023) – South African Airways (SAA) is aware of the planned national shutdown protest action on 20 March 2023.

While our flight schedule remains unchanged, we are closely monitoring the situation for any potential disruption to our operations. Your safety and well-being are of utmost importance to us, and we are taking all necessary measures to minimise any potential disruptions. We will do our utmost to keep you informed of any changes to our flight schedule.

To assist our valued passengers, South African Airways has implemented measures to accommodate those who choose to change their travel plans of 20 March 2023. We will allow one (1) free change on SAA-operated flights.

We advise all passengers to check their flight status regularly by visiting our website, flysaa.com, calling your Travel Agent or contacting our call centre at +27 11 978 1111.

All other related queries may be directed by email to SAAcustomerservice@flysaa.com

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620 / Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
06 March 2023 - SAA Cargo partners with Menzies Aviation to provide air cargo services at three airports Collapsed Content

JOHANNESBURG (6 March 2023) – South African Airways (SAA) Cargo has appointed Menzies Aviation, the world’s largest aviation services company, to provide air cargo services at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport (CPT), and Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ). The first phase of Menzies’ appointment started on 1 December 2022, with the handling of all SAA Cargo terminal operations in Cape Town. The second phase will begin at OR Tambo in the coming weeks.

The appointment of Menzies followed a rigorous procurement process and is part of the ongoing restructuring process that SAA is implementing post-Business Rescue. Professor John Lamola, Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer of SAA, says “This milestone is an important one, it is part of our efforts to re-position SAA Cargo and unlock the value of SAA Cargo terminals. It also allows management to focus on critical strategic goals to grow our cargo business,”

Menzies Aviation CEO Philipp Joeinig says, “The partnership with SAA aligns with the strategy to grow Menzies’ footprint in Africa, where we see huge potential for growth” Joeinig added, “SAA is an important player in the cargo industry and this partnership is a real game changer for our business in South Africa as we are now based in the largest air cargo facilities in the country in the two main air freight ports. It also aligns with our long-term vision to strengthen our position as the leading aviation services provider in Africa.”

SAA Cargo and Menzies are currently undertaking renovations of the terminals at OR Tambo, Cape Town, and Port Elizabeth with sustainability in mind. Investing in electric vehicles and ground service equipment, solar energy, energy efficient lighting and a full recycling programme are some of the actions being taken to reduce the carbon footprint.

The facilities, which will remain part of SAA’s property portfolio, are the largest domestically; OR Tambo has the capacity to handle 229,000 tonnes per year and Cape Town has a capacity of 92,550 tonnes per year. Menzies will move its existing and new business into the world-class cargo handling facilities.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com

Bronwyn Torrie, Head of Communications, Menzies Aviation

via Dentons Global Advisors

Dentons Global Advisors, One Fleet Place, London, EC4M 7RA

menziesaviation@dentonsglobaladvisors.com

Tel: +44 (0)7510 385552

About SAA

South Africa Airways (SAA) began operations on 1 February 1934. SAA, is a leading carrier in Africa, serving regional destinations between Johannesburg and eight African destinations - Accra, Kinshasa, Harare, Lusaka, Lagos, Mauritius, Windhoek, Victoria Falls and 2 domestic routes from Johannesburg to Cape Town and Durban. SAA will also commence services to Malawi on 16 March 2023. SAA is a member of the largest international airline network, Star Alliance. SAA’s core business is the provision of passenger airline and cargo transport services together with related services, which are provided through SAA and its wholly owned subsidiaries: SAA Technical (SAAT), a world class maintenance facility and Air Chefs, the catering entity of SAA. SAAT has particularly been successful in the delivery of high-quality maintenance services such as major airframe checks; engine overhaul; mechanical components; avionics and line maintenance. From its first flight in 1934, SAA have welcomed the world to South Africa by showing off the warm generous heart of the country. The airline has more than 89 years of excellence and innovation to draw on.

About Menzies Aviation

Menzies Aviation has been evolving since 1833 to become the worlds’ largest aviation services company with operations on six continents. Headquartered in London, Menzies provides time critical ground services, fuel services and air cargo services at more than 250 airports in 58 countries, supported by a team of over 35,000 highly trained people. Best in class safety and security are the number one priority every day. For more information about Menzies Aviation, visit menziesaviation.com

23 February 2023 - SAA receives R1bn towards historical debt Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (23^rd February 2023) – South African Airways (SAA) welcomes the announcement by Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, of a R 1 billion allocation to settle a portion of the outstanding obligations on the implementation of SAA’s 2020 Business Rescue Plan.

As noted by Minister Godongwana, the allocation is part of the government’s commitment to the business rescue process that SAA exited in April 2021. It will be used to cover outstanding liabilities, specifically those relating to the final dividend payment to creditors and the refund of legacy un-flown tickets to affected passengers - which date back to the period when SAA was placed in business rescue in December 2019.

SAA’s Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Professor John Lamola says, “SAA’s operations have progressed positively since the airline emerged from business rescue, and as reported to Parliament earlier this month, SAA is no longer technically insolvent, a milestone which we reached a year earlier than projected”

The Chief Financial Officer, Fikile Mhlontlo, adds, “SAA has reached a point where we cover our operating costs. It must be emphasised that the allocation announced relates only to historical debt. These funds are not meant to bolster the business plan we are currently executing.”

The R1bn allocation is part of original R 3.5 bn that was needed for SAA to settle all debt that the Business Rescue practitioners had ring-fenced into a Receivership. Due to the financial performance of SAA and the innovations of its management team, the total balance expected from National Treasury has been reduced to R2.586 bn. The airline will continue to negotiate with National Treasury for the balance of the funds and cooperate with all the conditions that may accompany the flow of these funds.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa/
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

10 February 2023 - Court application by Mango Airlines' Business Rescue Practitioners Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (10^th February 2023) – South African Airways (SAA) has taken note of the court application by Mr Sipho Sono, Mango Airlines’ Business Rescue Practitioner (BRP) against the Minister of Public Enterprises (“the Minister”) and SAA regarding the processes governing the disposal of SAA’s shares in Mango to the investor identified by the BRP.

Mr. Sono is asking the court to compel the Minister to approve the sale of Mango as a matter of urgency. He further complains about requests for details such as the identity and the commercial capability of the BRP’s preferred bidder.

It must be noted that Mango is a subsidiary of SAA - a state-owned enterprise. As such, the Board of SAA is bound by an agreement with the Minister of Public Enterprises that is explicit that the Minister has the right to seek as much information as necessary for him to act responsibly in supporting an asset disposal application. Therefore, SAA believes that the Minister is within his right to declare his dissatisfaction with the quality of information from Mr Sono to support the transaction for the sale of Mango.

Mango was placed in business rescue in July 2021 with the expectation that the process would last no more than six months. The Mango BR process turned out to be a frustratingly protracted and expensive ordeal. Mr Sono has announced preferred investors a number of times before but failed to furnish details. He would refuse to disclose to SAA and DPE the names of these preferred bidders even though Mango shares are SAA’s property, and we are within our rights to know the identity of the bidders. In the final instance, when a bidder was eventually disclosed to SAA, and we fairly pointed out a reasonable material conflict, this present dispute erupted around the nature of the due diligence required on the now-restructured prospective investor and their business plan.

SAA supported and facilitated the resolution of the Board of Mango to place the airline in voluntary business rescue in 2021. This step was actively supported by all labour organisations at Mango as the airline could not service its active debt of R2.85 billion from its operations.

SAA, with the support of the Minister, has invested R819-million specifically to ensure a successful rescue of Mango. SAA has voted along with all the Mango creditors that this rescue should entail the sale of shares to an investor with the capability to restart the airline. SAA has nothing to benefit from a liquidated Mango. In addition to the funds mentioned above, if Mango is wound down, SAA is liable for the R80-million guarantee issued in favour of the Air Services Licensing Council for passenger protection liability.

SAA holds that the requests for further information on the proposed investor by the Minister are legitimate. Professor John Lamola, SAA’s Interim Chairman and CEO affirms that “SAA supports the Minister and the DPE in their opposition of Mr. Sono’s court application and will continue with its search and demand for the information required to complete the PFMA application for SAA’s Mango’s proper disposal”.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa/
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

29 December 2022 - Update on Flight Delays Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (29 December 2022) – South African Airways (SAA) apprises its customers and stakeholders regarding the jet fuel supply shortage experienced at OR Tambo International Airport in the early hours of Wednesday, 28^th December 2022.

The technical problem of supplying the fuel from the storage system which is operated by the Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA) had impacted all airlines including SAA. SAA is pleased to confirm that the problem has been resolved. The situation was unprecedented and beyond the airlines control.

Only OR Tambo international airport was affected by this problem, however, since aircraft perform rotations and return from their destinations the impact of the delays was also felt by passengers to or out of Cape Town, Durban, and some of the airline’s regional routes.

SAA flights were delayed by a maximum of three and a half hours. By the end of the day, all passengers were assisted to reach their destinations. SAA thanks its customers for their patience and understanding.

No further delays attributable to jet fuel supply are anticipated ahead of the New Year peak period.

Access SAA’s updated flight schedule on www.flysaa.com for all flights and best fares.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa/
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/

15 December 2022 - SAA's return to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (15^th December 2022) – South African Airways (SAA) marked its relaunch to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe on 14^th December 2022. The airline first commenced services to Victoria Falls in the year 2000 and returning to this route, the seventh wonder of the world was met with much excitement, celebration and ceremonial gesticulation by the community, stakeholders as well as government of Zimbabwe.

Various dignitaries graced the opening event held at Victoria Falls International Airport including the Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Development, Acting Mayor of Victoria Falls, Resident Minister, President of the Tourism Business Council, CEO of Airports Company Zimbabwe, CEO of Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, and other government officials. The relaunch of the route was seen by various speakers as an important milestone and significant contribution by SAA towards the development of the region and the continent in terms of improving economy, tourism, and job creation.

Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Development, Honourable Mr. Mike Madiro expressed gratitude to the SAA Board, Management, and employees for returning to Victoria Falls. Honourable Madiro said, ‘Air transportation serves as a pivotal economic driver and SAA has become a key player connecting South Africa and Zimbabwe, he added, “SAA is bringing the world to Victoria Falls and taking Victoria Falls to the World.”

Other key stakeholders at the inaugural ceremony at Victoria Falls International Airport agreed that connecting people for business and leisure is key to economic growth, building relationships and the development of Zimbabwe.

SAA representative at the launch event, Board Member and Chief Financial Officer, Mr Fikile Mhlontlo said, “When the airline commenced operations one of the countries SAA restarted in September 2021 with was Zimbabwe flying from Johannesburg to Harare, so relaunching Victoria Falls signals the airlines strategic intent of serving neighbouring countries including the wonderful Zimbabwe. SAA is committed in the medium to long-term easing connectivity challenges on the African continent. We are thankful and it is really heartening that SAA is seen as the national carrier of many countries in Africa. May Africa grow from strength to strength”.

SAA Executive Chairperson and CEO, Prof. John Lamola says, “SAA had been through an unprecedented time in its history with financial challenges culminating in the business rescue and difficulties associated with Covid19 leading to ceasing of flight operations. SAA is back and is very pleased with the positive support it is receiving from passengers and all stakeholders who wish the airline well.”

SAA flies to Victoria Falls six days a week. Victoria Falls remains a popular tourist destination and the airline is proud to take its customers to the magnificence of one of the World's largest waterfalls.

Access www.flysaa.com for all flight schedules and best fares.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa/
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/fly

10 December 2022 - Update on SAA Routes Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (10 December 2022) – South African Airways (SAA) announced new routes on 1^st December 2022 in anticipation of the busy festive season providing more options for travellers. The airline has since relaunched the Johannesburg – Windhoek route on 08 December 2022 and on 14 December 2022 will relaunch the Johannesburg – Victoria Falls route.

The airline has also increased frequencies and seat capacity on Mauritius, Harare, and Cape Town. More routes and an increase of frequency as demand increases in 2023. The airline will expand its route network, to support trade and tourism and connect passengers to Africa and the World.

Regrettably, the planned Johannesburg - Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) schedule, which was to commence on Monday, 12^th December 2022 will now be deferred to the new year. The deferral of the restart of this route is due to the regulatory approval process that has taken much longer than anticipated.

SAA Chief Commercial Officer, Tebogo Tsimane says, “Whilst the airline is disappointed that we could not achieve flying the Ggeberha route in time to meet the December peak season demand, the restart of this route remains a critical part of SAA’s network growth plan and SAA will continue to work to achieve this.”

Access SAA’s updated flight schedule on www.flysaa.com for all flights and best fares.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

SAA social media:

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA
Twitter- https://twitter.com/flysaa
LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa/
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08 December 2022 - SAA Route launch to Windhoek, Namibia Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (8 December 2022) – South African Airways (SAA), relaunched its route to Namibia today with fanfare at Hosea Kutako International Airport, Windhoek in Namibia.

The route to Windhoek is part of SAA’s plans to continue its restart strategy, opening additional route networks to various regional destinations and growing the airline. SAA is pleased to be able to launch a route that helps reconnect South Africa and Namibia through air travel. SAA is elated to have revived the route which stretches back to the 1960s.

SAA’s Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Fikile Mhlontlo says, “The SAA team is excited to be able to reconnect Namibia with friends, families, relatives, businesses, and members of diplomatic core, contributing to the growth in relations between the two nations. This is a route that SAA has flown for more than 60 years. The Namibians received the airline back to their land with much jubilation, love, and SAA is truly grateful for their support.”

As the world fully opens to post-Covid travel once more, SAA is looking forward to adding more routes at a greater frequency as demand increases in 2023. The airline will expand its network of routes, to support trade and tourism.

Mhlontlo added, “We acknowledge and are humbled by the good support received from Namibian Government and the industry at large. More than anything, SAA seeks to enhance the experience of travellers in and out of South Africa and providing customer excellence with our award-winning hospitality that SAA is known for”.

ENDS

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Ms. Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
01 December 2022 - SAA introduces new destinations & increased frequencies ahead of the Festive Season Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (1 December 2022) – South African Airways (SAA) introduces new routes just in time for the festive season. The airline commences services to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Windhoek in Namibia, and a special schedule for Ggeberha from Johannesburg, OR Tambo International Airport.

On Thursday, 8^th of December 2022, SAA will commence twice daily flights to Windhoek in Namibia, 7 days a week. SAA has made it easier for customers to enjoy unique safaris which connect you to the earth and beautiful sunrises and sunsets against a majestic backdrop of either sea or sand.

SAA has added Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe to its growing route network from Wednesday, 14^th December 2022. Flights are available six days a week, except for Saturdays with departures from Johannesburg at 10h50, arriving at Victoria Falls International Airport at 12h25. Departures from Victoria Falls is at 13h10 each afternoon arriving in Johannesburg at 14h50.

Victoria Falls remains a popular tourist destination and the airline is proud to take its customers to the magnificence of one of the World's largest waterfalls. Flights are available six days a week, except for Saturdays.

With our domestic travelers in mind, SAA has added an option to fly to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) over the holidays. Commencing Monday, 12 December 2022, the airline offers 3 return flights per day to the Eastern Cape Province. SAA’s Executive Commercial, Mr. Tebogo Tsimane says, “We are thrilled to start flying to Ggeberha as demand is high over the holiday season and we are happy to play our part in bringing families together this festive period.”

SAA will operate an Airbus A320 aircraft on this route. Limited seats are available, access www.flysaa.com for all flight schedules and best fares.

To accommodate customers ahead of the festive season, SAA has increased frequencies to Harare in Zimbabwe from 7 to 10 a week and Mauritius from 4 times a week to 7 times a week.

SAA’s Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, Professor John Lamola says, “In pursuit of this drive to please our customers, we are relentlessly working on expanding the network of destinations we serve, to enhance seamless travel connectivity. Our new routes along with increased frequencies to our regional destinations, represent the second phase of our post-Covid restart operations.”

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms. Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620/Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
12 November 2022 - SAA aircraft (ZS-SZJ) ground incident Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (12^th November 2022) – South African Airways (SAA) confirms an unfortunate ground incident which occurred on Friday evening, 11^th November 2022, involving an SAA and FlySafair aircraft.

An SAA Airbus A320 (ZS-SZJ) was being towed from the airport ramp to the maintenance facility when the tow bar of a tow truck broke and caused the aircraft to veer off and hit a parked FlySafair aircraft (ZS-SJH). The SAA wing tip and the FlySafair empennage section was damaged. No passengers were onboard either aircraft at the time.

The SAA aircraft (ZS-SZJ) is out of operation and the impact of the wing is being assessed. Both the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have been notified. The aircraft will only return to operations once the airline is satisfied of its airworthiness.

As a result of the incident, SA357/372 from Johannesburg to Cape Town was cancelled and customers were accommodated on SA359/374. Further, SA323/334 has been upgraded to operate A333 and the new estimated departure time for SA334 is 13h05 local time, due to rotation.

SAA Executive Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, Professor John Lamola, says “This is truly an unfortunate development as this takes out the seat capacity of two aircraft, an SAA A320 and a FlySafair B737, out of the market at a time when our passengers are experiencing higher ticket prices due to limited aircraft availability on our domestic market. My colleague at FlySafair and I are committed to taking extraordinary steps at ensuring that both the aircraft are brought back to service as soon as possible,”

SAA Executive: Operations, Mr Madoda Nkalane says, “SAA assures its customers that all ground safety procedures have been adhered to as part of our strict safety protocols. The airline regrets any inconvenience and delays caused by this incident and for any further disruptions that might impact our schedule.”

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
02 November 2022 - SAA confirms IASC decision and the addition of new destinations Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (2 November 2022) – South African Airways (SAA) is pleased to confirm that the International Air Services Council (IASC) has ratified that SAA retains all its historical route traffic rights, following SAA’s voluntary relinquishing of the number of frequencies on the destinations it is not currently servicing.

In accordance with legislated and prescribed procedures SAA meets with the IASC on a quarterly basis to review and justify its route network plan and traffic rights to destinations it is not yet flying to.

Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Professor John Lamola, says “SAA, as a buoyant national airline, has an important enabling role in the South African economy. Those routes and frequencies that are not part of SAA’s medium-term plans will progressively be released to the Council for the benefit of the industry.”

In the coming weeks the airline will be announcing the addition of more routes to its growing network. SAA will be introducing flights to Blantyre and Lilongwe in Malawi, Windhoek in Namibia, and Victoria Falls, in Zimbabwe before the start of the festive season.

Together with increased frequencies to Accra in Ghana, Cape Town, Durban, Harare in Zimbabwe, Lusaka in Zambia, Mauritius and Kinshasa in the DRC, these changes represent the second phase of SAA’s post-Covid restart operations which commenced thirteen months ago.

The airline is on course to re-enter some of its traditional regional markets and enter new routes which remain underserved. Plans are also underway to launch SAA’s first post re-start intercontinental route during the first quarter of the new year.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620/Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
25 October 2022 - SAA Transformation is on track | First Black African female Captain Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (25^th October 2022) – South African Airways (SAA), is proud to make dreams come true as today marks a significant day in the history of the airline. Two black African females for the first time in the airlines 88 years in existence operated a flight from Johannesburg to Cape Town. The flight was commandeered by Captain Annabel Vundla and First Officer Refilwe Moreetsi.

Captain Vundla is SAA’s first Black African Female Captain and First Officer Moreetsi is not only a seasoned and experienced pilot, but also the first Black African female Management Pilot as she is also responsible for Fatigue Risk Management at the airline.

As part of October 2022 Transport Month, SAA is honoured to operate this historic flight. SAA Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, says, “This is a milestone in the transformation of our national carrier. The airline continues to show leadership in transforming the aviation sector and overcoming inequalities in scarce skills and employment opportunities.”

SAA is a truly transformed airline with an ethnicity count of 63% Africans, 11% Coloureds, 10.5% Indians and 15.5% Whites.

“South Africans can feel proud of a national carrier that is truly represented of our diversity and we celebrate that. SAA is a non-discriminatory, non-racial, equal opportunities employer with a strategic transformational role,” says SAA Executive for Human Resources, Mrs Mpho Letlape.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
12 October 2022 - SAA adding more capacity Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (12^th October 2022) – South African Airways (SAA) currently operates 7 Airbus aircraft, consisting of 2x A320s, 3x A319s, 1x A330-300 and 1x A340-300. The A340 aircraft supports the schedule as an additional aircraft during required fleet maintenance or when capacity demand requires the deployment of a larger aircraft accommodating more passengers. As the peak holiday season approaches, SAA is bringing into service an additional three (3) A320 aircraft, bringing the total number of A320s to 5 aircraft to support the high-capacity demand. The first of these was delivered on 25^th September 2022 and the rest will be delivered every month from thence.

Despite the delays with the implementation of the capital restructuring transaction involving a Strategic Equity Partner, the airline is on course to deliver a commercially sustainable and world-class air passenger and cargo services in South Africa, regionally and soon globally. There is a clear demarcation of focus between the SAA Management that is driving a plan for competitive airline operations, and the oversight of matters relating to the SEP which are being managed by the Department of Public Enterprises. SAA management is relentlessly implementing the expansion of the airline to match market dynamics in both the domestic and international scene.

According to SAA Executive Chairman, Professor John Lamola “SAA as the national flag carrier and an entity wholly owned by the people of South Africa has a responsibility to secure the sustainability of the airline industry in South Africa as an enabler of economic development and facilitator of affordable air travel to all users of air transportation in the country. The addition of extra seat capacity in the market enables the achievement of an equilibrium between supply and demand in the market that affects the pricing of air tickets”.

Besides this additional capacity of three A 320s, SAA has over the last two weeks increased the aircraft size on two of our busiest routes, Cape Town, and Harare. The Harare- Johannesburg route is now serviced by the larger A330 aircraft on three of its seven-day weekly frequencies.

In addition, according to SAA Chief Commercial Officer, Tebogo Tsimane, “SAA is replacing its A340-300 with a similar capacity aircraft and will exit the A319 fleet in 2023. Tsimane added, “As we increase fleet size to match the needs of the growing network schedule, we are encouraged that our strategy to cautiously re-enter markets abandoned due to the Covid pandemic has served us very well during the past twelve month, and we will continue to follow that cautious risk-adjusted trajectory.”

SAA’s current business plan is to aggressively ramp up operations and to implement a fleet strategy that will continue to gain momentum of growing our regional-continental services and introduce international-long haul services.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620/Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
11 October 2022 - SAA staff highly rated in global airline survey Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (11^th October 2022) – South African Airways (SAA) is proud of the results of a global survey in which SAA employees took top position and was placed best in South Africa for the Best Airline Staff. The team took runner up position and was placed second on the African continent. This is especially significant considering employees have been through a painful and challenging restructuring process.

The respected Skytrax World Airline Awards has recognised SAA’s employees for their friendliness and efficiency, this award highlights the consistent excellent service delivered by airport and on-board customer service teams.

SAA’s Interim Chair and CEO Professor John Lamola says. “Throughout its long and proud history SAA has always placed customers at the centre of everything that we do, and that philosophy is held dear by all our staff. They are hardworking, dedicated and focused every single day making sure that passengers are safe, happy, and comfortable. All of us at SAA are incredibly proud of this achievement.”

The ranking comes as SAA celebrates its one-year return to operations after exiting business rescue with plans in place to resize its current fleet and examine more local and regional route options.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
29 September 2022 - SAA is not losing its current route rights | Update on domestic, regional and international routes Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (29^th September 2022) – South African Airways (SAA) assures its customers that the airline is not losing its route rights. SAA continues to operate its current network and schedule with 6 regional and 3 domestic destinations. Currently, the airline has deployed additional capacity on the Cape Town route to meet demand and we have increased the aircraft size on the Harare route.

SAA made representation to the International Air Services Licensing Council (The Council) on its current route allocation and the decision by the Council to review some of the frequencies on the routes that the airline is currently not serving.

SAA continues to ramp up its operations by bringing in additional equipment into the fleet. The first addition arrived on 27^th September 2022. SAA has taken delivery of an Airbus 320 which allows the airline to continue to gain momentum with the intention to resume full regional and international services.

There is no doubt that SAA still retains a high brand equity and customer loyalty, demonstrated by successfully operating six in-demand routes on our Continent, high occupancy rates on domestic routes, and robust increase of Voyager members.

In addition to SAA’s own operations, customers can select to fly destinations with SAA’s codeshare partners on Emirates, Air Mauritius, LAM Mozambique, Egyptair, Ethiopian, Singapore Airlines and Kenya Airways. All SAA and codeshare flights can be booked on the SAA website www.flysaa.com at competitive rates. Customers and voyager members can be assured that SAA will be adding more codeshare partners in the coming months.

SAA is a proud member of the 24 member airlines network, Star Alliance, which prides itself as being the world’s largest global airline alliance. Star Alliance claimed World’s Best Airline Alliance title at the Skytrax 2022 World Airline Awards. Overall, the Star Alliance network currently offers more than 10,000 daily flights to almost 1,200 airports in 184 countries. Further connecting flights are offered by Star Alliance Connecting Partners Juneyao Airlines and THAI Smile Airways (see attached full Star Alliance Statement).

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Web: www.flysaa.com
23 September 2022 - SAA celebrates a year on the wing Collapsed Content
Johannesburg (23^rd September 2022) - Today marks a year since SAA resumed its flight operations after 18 months of halted services due to Covid 19 pandemic restrictions and the financial challenges that led to the company undergoing a Business Rescue Process. The restart was preceded by months of arduous and meticulous planning, involving a complex set of both internal and external stakeholders.

There is a growing consensus within the airline industry that under the leadership of the current Interim Board and new Executive Management team the SAA is on a steady path of recovery and growth. The vital role SAA plays as an enabler of tourism and trade and, most importantly, in facilitating essential connections between peoples and families is firmly re-established. For this reason, this day is marked by a series of celebratory events involving both SAA staff and customers.

The Chairman of the Interim Board and CEO, Professor John Lamola reflected that: “It has been a challenging but stimulating 12 months. We have been inspired by the fact that SAA has successfully been flying the national flag for 88 years surviving formidable historical turbulences, both economic and political. Thus we are firmly focused on rebuilding this airline and making South Africans proud”.

Lamola took the opportunity to outline SAA’s activities over the past 12 months:
- SAA has maintained its impeccable and enviable air safety record, whilst restoring the kind of world class customer service that SAA has become renown for.
- We successfully operated eight routes in Africa, six regionally and two domestically; despite the December-January disruption by the Omnicrom variant of Covid-19, flying over 500 000 customers safely to their destinations,
- The original fleet of aircraft that we started operations with is being upgrade into the second phase of our strategy, whereby during this month, the programme of replacing the A319s with A320s and adding one more A330 to the fleet has commenced.
- SAA has operated 13 Charters with its A340, and has taken 23 sports teams to their destinations across Africa,
- Air travellers have regained confidence and trust in SAA. We have safely escorted and transported 314 unaccompanied minors this year,
- There are 3412 new Voyager members and collectively our loyalty programme members have earned 2.7 million miles,
- The popularity of our airport lounges has showing phenomenal growth following the conclusion of a partnership with Discovery Bank to renovate the lounges and avail access to Discovery Vitality members and the bank’s premium clients.
- SAA has codeshare agreements with Emirates, Air Mauritius, LAM Mozambique, Egyptair, Ethiopian, Singapore Airlines and Kenya Airways; our prized customer offering in this context is SAA’s membership of the 24 member airlines network, Star Alliance, which prides itself as being the world’s largest global airline alliance,
- SAA has also entered into a unique and ambitious partnership framework agreement with Kenya Airways entailing an active codeshare, cooperation on aircraft maintenance services, cargo uplift and lounge access,
Alongside all this operational successes, has been the support of regulatory and legal processes that the shareholder is engaged in, in closing the transaction on the onboarding of the Takatso Consortium as the strategic equity partner for SAA. We are glad that this process is now set for conclusion before the end of SAA’s current financial year, that is, the end of March 2023.

“As we celebrate all these successes our very sincere and humble gratitude goes to all our customers, staff, suppliers and a variety of stakeholders”, adds Lamola.

Click here for a video link

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
22 September 2022 - Media statement by the Executive Chairman of South African Airways: John Lamola Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (Thursday, 22 September 2022) - We noted today’s news reporting centred around remarks made by the Acting Director General of the Department of Public Enterprises, Ms Jacky Molisane on the future of SAA in relation to the prospects of the successful closure of the implementation of the strategic equity partnership with the Takatso Consortium.

The news that SAA will be liquidated if the SEP transaction is not concluded has been taken out of context, and the import of the statement made by the Acting DG is exaggerated and blown out of proportion. Elsewhere, Ms Molisane is quoted saying that “if the deal falls through, if the government cannot put more money into SAA, then the option we have all worked hard to avoid would have to be taken and that is the liquidation of SAA”.

We are in constant contact with the Acting DG. Her views, which are based on a continuous management of all the regulatory, legal and commercial processes common to transactions of this nature are aligned with those of the Board of SAA. The SAA Board is constantly monitoring and assessing the corporate risks associated with this transitional period SAA is going through.

On Wednesday 21st September 2022 SAA and the DPE were making a scheduled presentation to Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises on SAA’s 2017/18 annual financial statements. An ancillary question related to the progress on the SEP transaction in relation to funds outstanding from National Treasury for the conclusion of SAA’s Business Rescue Plan, answered by the Acting DG, led to a press story casting an impression that the future of SAA is in peril.

Typical of normal corporate governance protocols, a high-level risk management process involving both the DPE and SAA Board has been put in place to charter the future of SAA since the airline emerged out of Business Rescue with a restructuring solution that entails the introduction of a private strategic equity partner to this State-Owned-Company. The transaction is beset with delays emanating from legal requirements to comply with aviation regulatory conditions, and the Competition Commission. We can confirm that both SAA and the DPE are working on a time horizon of end of March 2023 for the substantive conclusion of the transaction, as this period marks a reportable end of current financial year 2022/23 for SAA.

Since the relaunch of the airline operations in September 2021 the Board has tasked SAA management to run the airline as a fully-fledged airline in compliance with legally imposed safety requirements, and as a business enterprise competing for its market share and profitability. In addition, in line with the requirement of the Public Finance Management Act, SAA had to prepare and submit a 3-year Corporate Plan to National Treasury.

As the airline celebrates its full year of successful operations, we are more than satisfied that we have built the foundation for a sustainable and growing airline business. The loyalty of our customers has been restored, the rest of Africa is proud to see SAA back in the skies, we are currently implementing plans to increase our fleet of aircraft, and with our corporate partners we are modernizing our customer experience offering, including the renovation of our airport lounges. We have also successfully increased our code-share partnerships and deepened SAA’s standing with the global Star Alliance network and the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Executing its fiduciary responsibilities in relation to judicious and prudential risk management, as enjoined in both the PFMA and the Companies Act 71 of 2008, the Board of SAA has over time being seized with the task of simulating a number of scenarios on the future of the airline. The outcomes of this risk management exercise is what has invigorated SAA management into its current single-minded focus of working for an operationally and financially successful airline. The fact that the delays in the National Treasury’s provision of the reported R3.5 billion have not negatively affected the life and growth of the restarted airline bears testimony to the resilience of SAA’s current business model.

The SAA Board will do everything in its power to ensure SAA survives. As a company with an overhead cost structure and operating model that have been restructured by the Business Rescue process, and a transformed management culture, SAA is poised for a sustained growth.

SAA management assures that there is a variety of resources within the company and the global aviation industry that can be innovatively exploited for the future success of SAA. We assure our customers and all our stakeholders and partners that there are no plans, nor an intention to see South African Airways liquidated.

Signed:

M. John Lamola
26 August 2022 - SAA's all female flight to mark the end of women's month Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (26^th August 2022) – In continuation of its celebration of Women’s month South African Airways (SAA) passengers are in for a treat on Tuesday the 30^th of August as the carrier’s early morning flight from Johannesburg to Cape Town (SA 317), and the departure out Cape Town (SA332) will have an all-female crew. After the success of the first all-female flight on Women’s Day on August 9, SAA says this is a fitting way to end the country’s four-week acknowledgement of the enormous contribution that women make to society and to the economy.

And it’s not just on board the flight but important operations and logistical functions will also be handled by women including flight dispatch, running the operational control center, as well as ramp and departure functions.

Captain Zeenat Safi will be in the cockpit. The Purser will be Thembi Skosana assisted by Heidi Vandekeere, Constance Mthimkulu and Mariam Suliman. Flight Dispatch will be the bailiwick of Mpho Molebatsi. The Operational Control Centre will be managed by Noluthando Mosese. Ramp functions will be managed by Jessica Ratshivhangwho and seeing the flight on its way at Departure Control will be Surekha Sewpersad.

The special flights is just one initiative SAA has implemented during Women’s Month under the theme “Fly High #NdizaNtombazane,” “Fly High Girl.”

Celebrations included discounted fares for customers during the month of August and an external competition where customers stand a chance of winning a flight simulator experience with one of the airline’s female pilots. It is appropriate that an all-female crew take command of the last 2022 Women’s Day flight of the month, symbolic as flagbearers for the next generation of inspirational young women who see themselves pursuing a career in aviation.

Purser Thembi Skosana, says, “This flight demonstrates the accomplishments of women in what is often perceived as a male environment.” SAA’s Interim Chairman and CEO Professor John Lamola says the all-female flight project show that all genders are equal in life and in the workplace, “Both these flights demonstrate SAA’s commitment to gender equality, and we hope this encourages young women to lift their heads and look at flying as a career choice.”

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
11 August 2022 - SAA will provide information to Air Services Licensing Council Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (11^th August 2022) – South African Airways (SAA) confirms receipt of a letter from the Air Services Licensing Council (ASLC) citing a few possible breaches of the Air Services Licensing Act No 115 of 1990 and directing SAA to provide certain information to afford the Council an opportunity to ascertain SAA’s compliance and/or non-compliance with the Act.

SAA is currently studying the contents of the letter and will be responding fully to the ASLC within or before the timeframe provided by the council.

SAA assures its customers and the public that the matters raised in the letter are of an administrative nature relating to the SEP transaction that is currently being negotiated by the Government, as the shareholder as well as issues relating to SAA’s interaction with the ASLC, the submission of financial statements and internal staff movement.

The questions raised in the letter do not impact on SAA’s current and future operations as well as the quality of the services provided by SAA. To that end, both local and regional services are continuing uninterrupted.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
08 August 2022 - SAA All female crew flights this women's month Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (8^th August 2022) – Celebrating the immense contribution made and success achieved by South African and African women on the continent, SAA will place three flights under the complete command of women during the month to demonstrate its support for gender equality. The all-female crewed flights, both at cockpit and cabin, will take charge of selected SAA’s scheduled flight operations on 9^th and 30^th August 2022.

Two of the three all-female crew will depart from Johannesburg to Harare at 10h40 (SA022) and Johannesburg to Durban at 16h55 (SA571) on Tuesday, 9^th August 2022 commemorating National Women’s Day.

Captain Anuska Pillay along with First Officer Michelle Coombes will be in the cockpit and the crew on the Airbus A320 which departs OR Tambo at 10h40 will be led by purser Kim Petersen and assisted by Agnes Maabane, Rene Essack and Loraine Mitchell. Jacquiline Mashinini will be the ramp agent coordinating and monitoring all the arrangements at the aircraft including pushing back the Aircraft from the parking bay.

The special flight is just one initiative SAA has implemented during Women’s Month under the theme “Fly High #NdizaNtombazane,” “Fly High Girl.”

Celebrations also include discounted fares for customers during the month of August and an external competition where customers stand a chance of winning a flight simulator experience with one of the airline’s female pilots.The third all-female flight has been planned for 30^th August from Johannesburg on a route to be announced.

Captain Pillay says, “Along with the rest of the crew, we are honoured at being given this responsibility and we are flying the flag for all South African women recognising not only their daily challenges and hardships but also the immense strides they have made in furthering gender parity. There is of course still much work to do, but an all-female flight initiatives like this are important as they demonstrate to people, particularly young girls, and women that nothing is impossible.”

Purser Kim Petersen says, “This is a special moment for all of us in the cabin and in addition to providing a safe, warm and friendly service SAA is famous for, we also want to show all young South Africans that dreams can be achieved through hard work and dedication no matter your gender.”

SAA’s Interim Chairman and CEO Professor John Lamola says, “The all-female flight project should show that all genders are equal in life and in the workplace, and we should all support the struggle for women for equality and protection against all the injustices they currently endure in our country”. He says there are many female SAA employees who occupy positions within leadership structures, strategic management, the pilot community, technicians, chefs, front line and behind the scenes. He says SAA salutes them and the contribution they make daily to the ongoing success of the carrier. Women’s Day/Month he says is a time to celebrate the strength and resilience of women and their contribution to society at large.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com

19 July 2022 - Kenya Airways and South African Airways sign codeshare agreement - Customers can enjoy seamless connections in Africa Collapsed Content

Nairobi/Johannesburg (19^th July 2022) - Kenya Airways (KQ), Kenya’s national carrier, and South African Airways (SAA) have signed a codeshare agreement that opens more destinations for seamless travel opportunities. As demand for air travel rebounds, the bilateral code-share agreement will see each airline sell, under its own code, flights operated by each other, SAA or KQ. SAA’s customers will continue to have the ability to earn Voyager miles on these new code share flights. The deal enables travellers to combine flight segments and baggage on a single ticket.

Passengers travelling out of South Africa will have more options to travel to African destinations including Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Entebbe, Mombasa, and Kisumu while KQ passengers will have more choices for travel into Southern Africa including Cape Town, Durban, and Harare immediately. The growth of the partnership will see the addition of Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro, Juba, Douala, Lusaka, Ghana, and Nigeria subject to government approval as the airlines seek to offer more options for travellers within Africa.

Allan Kilavuka, Kenya Airways CEO and Group Managing Director said; “We are very pleased to implement the codeshare with SAA which offers our shared customers more options and flight combinations. As part of our Strategic Partnership, we will contribute to making it easier for passengers to reach exciting new destinations within Africa. The additional destinations we believe will offer better customer journey thanks to the number of frequencies and connections created as well as many opportunities for trade and tourism.”

“Through the codeshare agreement with Kenya Airways, SAA’s valued customers will gain new travel choices to markets across East Africa via Kenya’s extensive network and hub in Nairobi, providing for seamless travel and status recognition. We are looking forward to introducing Kenya Airways customers to our award-winning service, and to working closely with Kenya Airways as our partnership will improve the connections between our respective networks,” says Prof John Lamola, CEO of SAA. Additional codeshare destinations are being evaluated between the partners and will be announced in due course.

In November 2021, KQ and SAA signed a Strategic Partnership Framework to work together to increase passenger traffic, cargo opportunities, and general trade by taking advantage of strengths in South Africa, Kenya, and Africa. This codeshare agreement builds upon an existing special prorate agreement which was signed earlier this year. KQ and SAA are also exploring ways to enhance co-operation on their respective frequent flyer programmes, including reciprocal earning and redemption opportunities and popular benefits such as lounge access, and will be announcing the details in due course.

- ENDS-

For media queries please contact:

Henry Okatch - Head of Communications
Kenya Airways (KQ)
Henry.Okatch@kenya-airways.com

Vimla Maistry – Lead Corporate Affairs

South African Airways (SAA)

About Kenya Airways

Kenya Airways, a member of the Sky Team Alliance, is a leading African airline flying to 41 destinations worldwide, 34 of which are in Africa and carries over four million passengers annually. In 2020 KQ was named Africa’s Leading Airline by the World Travel Awards. It continues to modernize its fleet with its 32 aircraft being some of the youngest in Africa. This includes its flagship B787 Dreamliner aircraft. Kenya Airways services London, Amsterdam, Guangzhou, Sharjah, Mumbai and over 25 intra-Africa routes in addition to its passenger network. The on-board service is renowned and the lie-flat business class seat on the wide-body aircraft is consistently voted among the world’s top 10. Kenya Airways takes pride in being at the forefront of connecting Africa to the World and the World to Africa through its hub at the new ultra-modern Terminal 1A at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi.

About South Africa Airways

South Africa Airways (SAA) began operations on 1 February 1934. SAA serves regional routes between Johannesburg and six African destinations - Accra, Kinshasa, Harare, Lusaka, Lagos, Mauritius and 2 domestic routes from Johannesburg to Cape Town and Durban. SAA is a member of the largest international airline network, Star Alliance. SAA’s core business is the provision of passenger airline and cargo transport services together with related services, which are provided through SAA and its wholly owned subsidiaries: SAA Technical (SAAT), a world class maintenance facility and Air Chefs, the catering entity of SAA. SAAT has particularly been successful in the delivery of high-quality maintenance services such as major airframe checks; engine overhaul; mechanical components; avionics and line maintenance. From its first flight in 1934, SAA have welcomed the world to South Africa by showing off the warm generous heart of the country. The airline has more than 88 years of excellence and innovation to draw on.

14 July 2022 - Tebogo Tsimane appointed interim Chief Commercial Officer Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (14^th July 2022) – In preparation for leaving SAA at the end of August, Interim Chief Commercial Officer Simon Newton-Smith is transitioning the role to Tebogo Tsimane, who has several years of experience in senior roles within the commercial and operational environment at SAA.

Newton-Smith says, “My job was to support the team in restarting SAA, rebuilding market confidence and ensure that our passenger and cargo loads were maximized during a tough operating environment. I am very proud of what the Commercial team and our colleagues right across the business have achieved since our September 2021 restart. After a year leading the team and with the foundation set for the next chapter in SAA’s rebuild, now is the right time for me to hand the reigns to Tebogo.”

SAA’s Interim Chair and CEO Professor John Lamola says, “Simon has brought much needed stability to our commercial operation in the time he has been here, and he leaves with our appreciation and deep thanks. Tebogo has been with SAA for a number of years in various senior roles, has an exceptional understanding of the complexities of the new aviation operating environment and knows exactly what SAA needs to do to remain successful and profitable”.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620 | Office: +27 11 978 2303
Web: www.flysaa.com
03 July 2022 - SAA wins fans at this years Durban July Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (3^rd July 2022) – SAA’S colourful Durban July 2022 on-course exhibition proved to be a major hit with punters this past weekend at South Africa’s premier horse racing event. Situated in the middle of the busy attendee’s village, the stand showcased the carrier’s successful return to operations explaining to visitors a variety of commercial offerings.

SAA was the official airline partner to this year’s Hollywood Bets Durban July and passengers on the busy Johannesburg-Durban route were given a special ticket discount on the day.

In addition, SAA flew two larger Airbus (A-320’s) on the route on Saturday to accommodate increased demand. Both return flights were fully booked. SAA says its successful return to full domestic and regional operations means a greater need for accelerated tactical marketing efforts and it will participate in more engagement events going forward.

Says Interim Chairperson and CEO Professor John Lamola, “We have achieved success in the initial phases of our return to business and going forward it is now critical we engage meaningfully with our customer bases and those in the trade who are our valued partners in future success. Our Durban July activation is one such example, giving people a first-hand understanding of how far we have come and how we plan to grow in the future.”

SAA says its pursuing active participation in the so-called MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions/events) space as landmark events need reliable travel partners and solutions.

Apart from the Durban July, SAA has been close to the recent Africa Travel Tourism Inaba, Decorex Cape Town; the Manufacturing Indaba, and the Africa Aerospace and Defence Exhibition with several others in the pipeline.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com

20 June 2022 - SAA and Discovery announce strategic partnership to provide airport lounge access for Discovery Bank clients Collapsed Content

Johannesburg, 20 June 2022 – Discovery and South African Airways (SAA) today announced a landmark partnership that will enable Discovery Bank clients to access SAA’s airport lounges, and also make SAA’s flight network available on the Vitality Travel platform.

With immediate effect, Discovery Bank Purple, Black and Platinum cardholders will be able to use their Discovery Bank app to access SAA’s airport lounges.

The long-term partnership will provide customers with access to refurbished lounges and upgraded service offerings at SAA’s Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban lounges.

Discovery Bank CEO Hylton Kallner explained that the partnership is a contribution to both government and the national carrier’s broader aims to revitalise operations through a public-private partnership, while contributing to the tourism industry. “We are delighted to work with SAA to upgrade these iconic lounges. Along with our Priority Fast Track Lanes at the OR Tambo and Cape Town International Airports, Discovery Bank clients will now enjoy the best possible end-to-end travel experience. In fact, the comprehensive Vitality Travel suite of benefits ensures that our clients enjoy the best value and experience in travel – whether for business or leisure.”

“We are also excited that SAA flights will soon also be available on the Vitality Travel platform as part of our flight network, giving our clients more choice and value in terms of airlines and destinations, and extending our reach into the continent,” says Kallner.

SAA Interim Executive Chairman and CEO John Lamola says: “We appreciate the collaboration with Discovery and believe that this partnership will add to the customer experience when choosing SAA as your carrier of choice. We are heading in the right direction, as this partnership is a win-win-win for SAA, Discovery and, most importantly, our customers.”

Discovery Bank clients and Voyager members can look forward to exciting enhancements

Discovery Vitality CEO Dinesh Govender says: “This is a milestone partnership which amplifies the Vitality Travel offering for Discovery Bank clients. Vitality members book over 1 million flights a year – enough to fill 10 planes a day – and airport lounges are a quintessential benefit for those who enjoy travel. Now, in addition to the 1,000+ Lounge Key airport lounges that our Discovery Bank clients have access to worldwide, they will also enjoy the exclusive, world class experience that SAA lounges will deliver. While access to the lounges commences today, clients can look forward to exciting new menus and luxury amenities, as well as refurbishments to the facilities in the coming months.”

SAA Commercial Executive Simon Newton-Smith says: “This partnership allows customers to enjoy world class facilities at SAA lounges and we are very much looking forward to welcoming Discovery clients.”

For media queries please contact:

Felicity Hudson

Head of Reputation Management
Discovery Group
media_relations_team@discovery.co.za

071 680 0234

Vimla Maistry

Lead Corporate Affairs

South African Airways (SAA) Group

011 978 2303

About South Africa Airways

South Africa Airways (SAA) began operations on 1 February 1934. SAA, is a leading carrier in Africa, serving regional destinations between Johannesburg and six African destinations - Accra, Kinshasa, Harare, Lusaka, Lagos, Mauritius and 2 domestic routes from Johannesburg to Cape Town and Durban. SAA is a member of the largest international airline network, Star Alliance. SAA’s core business is the provision of passenger airline and cargo transport services together with related services, which are provided through SAA and its wholly owned subsidiaries: SAA Technical (SAAT), a world class maintenance facility and Air Chefs, the catering entity of SAA. SAAT has particularly been successful in the delivery of high-quality maintenance services such as major airframe checks; engine overhaul; mechanical components; avionics and line maintenance. From its first flight in 1934, SAA have welcomed the world to South Africa by showing off the warm generous heart of the country. The airline has more than 88 years of excellence and innovation to draw on.

About Discovery

Discovery Limited is a South African-founded financial services organisation that operates in the banking, healthcare, life insurance, short-term insurance, savings and investment, and wellness markets. Since inception in 1992, Discovery has been guided by a clear core purpose – to make people healthier and to enhance and protect their lives. This has manifested in its globally recognised Vitality Shared-value Insurance model, active in over 35 markets with over 20 million members. The model is exported and scaled through the Global Vitality Network, an alliance of some of the largest insurers across key markets, including Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America and South America.

Discovery trades on the Johannesburg Securities Exchange as DSY. Discovery Group is the holding company of Vitality Group in the USA and of Vitality UK.

16 June 2022 - Youth development at SAA Technical Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (16^th June 2022) – South African Airways (SAA), acknowledges that the attainment of knowledge and skills in the aviation sector is critical to provide opportunities for historically disadvantaged youth. This year marks the 46^th anniversary of the June 16, Soweto Youth Uprising celebrated under the theme, “Promoting sustainable livelihood and resilience of young people for a better tomorrow”.

As we commemorate youth month, SAA recognizes the contribution of the training programs offered by SAA Technical (SAAT) to the youth of the country. The training aims to develop and empower young men and women and places them in a better position for job opportunities.

Chief Executive Officer of SAAT, Mr Riaz Saloojee, says “The intention is to upskill previously disadvantaged individuals, predominantly from rural areas, to enable them to have better earning potential so as to make a meaningful contribution within their communities, the economy and improvement of the national skills expansion.”

As a strategic national asset, when recruiting for these initiatives, SAAT ensures that youth from all provinces are included. SAAT has a fully-fledged training center which is approved for nine registered trades to conduct both training and testing.

SAAT’s training program saw over 200 learners graduate over the past 3 years in eleven trade disciplines. SAAT currently has more than 120 young learners enrolled for the apprenticeship program across different aircraft trades.

“SAAT is proud of its contribution towards youth development, and we are committed to continue delivering on this agenda, we take this opportunity to wish the youth of this country a safe and memorable Youth Day”, adds Mr Salojee.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
02 June 2022 - SAA increases capacity to meet demand Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (2 June 2022) – South African Airways (SAA) notes the unfortunate decision by Comair to voluntarily suspend all flights, effective 1 June 2022.

SAA’s Interim Chairperson and Chief Executive, Prof John Lamola says, “Having emerged from business rescue ourselves, we empathize with Comair and understand the difficulties caused by COVID and high fuel prices.

“The team at SAA has been working hard to find solutions to help affected customers, and is in the process of adjusting our flying programme to adding more seats between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. We are also looking at options to help customers on other routes serviced by SAA, adds Lamola.

SAA will increase frequencies where possible and use existing capacity to meet customer demand. Kindly check our social media platforms and website for the latest information.

SAA advises all customers that the airline’s normal pricing structure remains in place, and during demand periods lower fares are naturally taken up first. Customers can access updated flight schedules on www.flysaa.com

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
06 May 2022 - SAA notes statements by the Auditor General Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (6^th May 2022) – The Board of SAA is concerned at the publication of an unorthodox interview between a journalist at Business Day, and its external auditors, Auditor-General of South Africa (AG). It has been assumed that protocol proscribe an external auditor to engage in that extent of public media engagement on affairs of its client. It is also regrettable that the newspaper made no effort to solicit SAA’s views on the matter.

In terms of applicable legislation, the preparation and presentation of audited financials to a shareholder is a cardinal function of the Board of Directors. Accordingly, the Board of SAA is concerned at the misleading impression created by the said newspaper article.

After exiting business rescue in April 2021 and resuming flight operations, SAA’s new Board and executive management have committed the company to good governance, transparency, and fiducial responsibility. The preparation and release of the 2017/18 financial statements is just one step in a lengthy process undertaken to rebuild and repostion SAA. A process the AG’s Office is aware of, is underway to finalise and release all outstanding annual financial statements.

The fact that the 2017/18 audited financial statements were finalised in 2022 is not unreasonable given SAA’s history of not being a going concern at the time of the audit and SAA’s subsequent entry into business rescue in 2019. Annual financial statements for the 2018/19, 2019/20 and 2020/21 financial years have been prepared but external audits were not conducted as the airline was in business rescue. The 2021/22 annual financial statements are currently being prepared and will be submitted timeously to the AG for audit.

SAA is now staffed by professionals who are cognizant of all the fiduciary, legal and political imperatives within which the airline is emerging as a vibrant competitor in both the local and global aviation industry.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
28 April 2022 - SAA'S interim CEO to leave the airline Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (28 April 2022) – SAA’s Interim CEO Thomas Kgokolo is to leave the airline at the end of April 2022 after a successful year at the helm, and John Lamola will assume the role of the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer with effect from 1^st May 2022.

Since exiting business rescue in April 2021 SAA has made significant strides in improving revenue and reopening services both locally and regionally and is now fully focused on its transition to control by its envisaged majority shareholder, Takatso Consortium, which will take a 51% stake in SAA later in the year.

SAA Lead Independent Non-Executive director, Ms Bembe Zwane says, “Thomas took the job of CEO as leader of a cohort of a Transition Management Team. He was generous enough to offer his professional services under a short term contract which we have eagerly extended on numerous occasions. Thomas has requested that his contract not be renewed. We appreciate the time he has given to SAA and look forward to the leadership of the executive team by John Lamola”

Professor Lamola was appointed non-executive chairman of the SAA Interim Board in July 2021. He is an Associate Professor at the Institute for Intelligent Systems of the University of Johannesburg. In addition to a PhD degree in Philosophy from the University of Edinburgh, he holds an MBA from a premier tertiary institution of education in aviation and aerospace studies in the United States, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He was the CEO of Denel Aviation between 1996 and 2001. He served on the Board of Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) from 2012 until 2017. Lamola has managed a proprietary portfolio of private equity investments through a number of privately held companies, including an aviation consulting firm, Baji Aviation Service.

Lamola added that the business strategy of SAA remains intact and on course as the Board and the Ministry of Public Enterprises are steadfastly pursing their goal of a sustainable SAA for the good of the entire South African economy.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com

01 April 2022 - Kenya Airways and South African Airways customers to enjoy lounge access in both countries Collapsed Content

Nairobi/Johannesburg (1^st April, 2022) - Kenya Airways (KQ) and South African Airways (SAA) have announced a new lounge access agreement for its customers as part of the Strategic Framework Agreement (SPF) signed in November 2021.

The lounge access agreement will allow KQ business class customers to have exclusive access to the lounge services at the SAA ultra-modern Premium lounge located at O.R Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.

The lounge offers a tranquil and comfortable escape from the hustle of the airport to freshen up, have complimentary WI-FI access, entertainment, indulge in food and beverages.

Julius Thairu Kenya Airways Chief Commercial and Customer officer said, “One of the key objectives of the partnership between KQ and SAA is to create win-win outcomes for customers and deliver exceptional service with high level of customer satisfaction. As air travel begins to pick up we are seeing Customers demanding a more seamless, personalized experience and we will continue working closely as equal partners to ensure that the experience is seamless at every tough point.”

Simon Newton-Smith, Executive Commercial at SAA says. “The lounge access will be reciprocal for SAA customers flying to Nairobi which signals the benefits of the strategic partnership of both airlines.”

KQ and SAA signed a Strategic Partnership Framework in November 2021 to work together to increase passenger traffic, cargo opportunities, and general trade by taking advantage of strengths in South Africa, Kenya, and Africa and eventually form a Pan-African carrier

- ENDS-

For media queries please contact:

Henry Okatch - Head of Communications
Kenya Airways (KQ)
Henry.Okatch@kenya-airways.com

Vimla Maistry – Lead Corporate Affairs

South African Airways (SAA)

About Kenya Airways

About South Africa Airways

South Africa Airways (SAA) began operations on 1 February 1934. SAA, is a leading carrier in Africa, serving regional destinations between Johannesburg and six African destinations - Accra, Kinshasa, Harare, Lusaka, Lagos, Mauritius and 2 domestic routes from Johannesburg to Cape Town and Durban. SAA is a member of the largest international airline network, Star Alliance. SAA’s core business is the provision of passenger airline and cargo transport services together with related services, which are provided through SAA and its wholly owned subsidiaries: SAA Technical (SAAT), a world class maintenance facility and Air Chefs, the catering entity of SAA. SAAT has particularly been successful in the delivery of high-quality maintenance services such as; major airframe checks; engine overhaul; mechanical components; avionics and line maintenance. From its first flight in 1934, SAA have welcomed the world to South Africa by showing off the warm generous heart of the country. The airline has more than 88 years of excellence and innovation to draw on.

30 March 2022 - SAA confirms release of 2017-18 Financial Statement Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (30 March 2022) – SAA confirms the tabling of its audited financial statements for the fiscal year 2017/18 in Parliament this week. SAA stresses that the figures included therein are historical and are not indicative of the airline’s current financial performance. The numbers reflected in the financial statements are as a result of business activities that took place under business conditions that existed at the time, more importantly under executive management and board that was in office then.

The statements for 2017/18 are being released three years later because at the time they were due to be released, auditors withheld their audit opinion due to the company’s significant going concern risk at the time, which later resulted in the company being placed in business rescue. We are all aware that SAA was subsequently placed in business rescue effective 5 December 2019 and exited the business rescue process on 30 April 2021.

Three years on, SAA’s entire operation has now been restructured with a reduced staff count and fleet size. This leaves the organisation better positioned for the future. South Africans should note that at the tail end of the business rescue the currect interim executives and interim board comprising of independent professionals were appointed to lead the organisation as it completed the restructuring, resumed flight operations and the shareholder embarked bringing on board a strategic equity partner.

Interim Chief Executive Officer, Mr Thomas Kgokolo says, “The conditions that led to the business rescue process cannot be repeated and the airline is confident that various measures put in place will prevent this happening.” SAA resumed flying in late September 2021.

The release of the 2017/18 financial statements is just one step as the remaining three years financial statements will be released in future once the audit gets underway and completed through the Auditor General’s Office.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
16 March 2022 - SAA adds new daily flights to meet new demand Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (16 March 2022) – South African Airways (SAA) has added additional return flights to meet a growing demand for customers travelling between Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Details of the additional flights added over a five day period to the current schedule:

SAA’s normal pricing structure remains in place.
Customers can access SAA’s full schedule on www.flysaa.com
ENDS
Media Enquiries may be directed to:
Ms Vimla Maistry
Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com
Mobile: +27 83 324 3620
Office: +27 11 978 2303
Web: www.flysaa.com
15 March 2022 - SAA increases capacity after Comair grounding Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (15 March 2022) – South African Airways (SAA) has taken note of a decision by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) to indefinitely ground all Comair flights in South Africa.

As a result, demand for seats across all domestic airlines has been extremely high given that 40% of normal seat capacity has been removed from the market.

SAA has not increased fares because of Comair’s temporary grounding. The airline has deployed bigger aircraft on some Durban and Cape Town flights and will continue to do so until the current situation stabilizes.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
04 March 2022 | SAA resumes Johannesburg-Durban service second addition to carrier's local route network Collapsed Content

SAA RESUMES JOHANNESBURG-DURBAN SERVICE

SECOND ADDITION TO CARRIER’S LOCAL ROUTE NETWORK

Johannesburg (4 March 2022) – SAA today re-introduced a three-times daily return service from Johannesburg to Durban with the first flight leaving early this morning.

The flight was warmly welcomed at King Shaka International Airport with a special water cannon salute and resounding applause from passengers and airport staff. The new route is a significant milestone for SAA since resuming operations five months ago. This is the second local destination SAA is now flying in addition to its busy three-times-daily Johannesburg-Cape Town service.

Mayor of eThekwini Municipality, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda said: “As the city we believe this development is worth celebrating. Indeed, it is going to unlock innumerable economic opportunities. It is a national carrier, and it is a good feeling to have SAA back in our skies again”

SAA’s Interim CEO Thomas Kgokolo says, “Both from a business and leisure perspective the Durban decision makes sound commercial sense linking two important economic hubs. Durban is a vital springboard-destination to the rest of the province that is one the country’s premier tourism hubs and also poised for huge economic growth in coming years.”

“Many companies that play a significant role in our national economy are headquartered in Durban and surrounding areas and the city’s port is undergoing a multi-billion-rand expansion. This means there will be a growing need for an efficient, regular and safe service to Durban and SAA’s focus on the business community, is well suited for this.”

SAA’s Acting Chief Commercial Officer Simon Newton Smith says, “As travel opportunities begin to open both domestically and internationally, we’re now in a position to amplify our evaluation of routes here and regionally. Before the pandemic hit, tourism to KwaZulu Natal amounted to around R12-billion per annum while there has also been significant promise of business investment including plans to develop areas south of Durban, including an automotive supplier park special economic zone and a R4 billion logistics park. These welcome initiatives will need to be serviced by air transport and we see SAA playing a crucial role in this respect.”

Newton Smith says passenger interest in the route has been encouraging and over the next few months will be supported by targeted offers.

Issued By: Group Corporate Affairs
01 February 2022 - SAA records in excess of 1 000 flights since exiting Business Rescue & new daily service to Durban starts shortly Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (1 February 2022) – After a successful relaunch in September last year, SAA has just recorded its over 1000th flight and is now leading its local competitors when it comes to on-time performance. Furthermore, since its restart in September last year SAA has also recorded a 100% completion rate - the percentage of completed scheduled flights excluding uncontrollable cancellations. The carrier says it is poised for more growth in its first full year of operations since exiting business rescue. At the same time SAA says its popular twice weekly service to Mauritius will resume on March 1 just ahead of its new daily Johannesburg/Durban service. Mauritius suspended SAA flights late last year due to COVID-19 concerns. SAA will fly three times daily to Durban after overwhelming passenger demand.

SAA’s Interim CEO Thomas Kgokolo says, “We are delighted to welcome our customers back on the Mauritius route following the decision by the Mauritian government to rescind its decision to stop operations particularly during the height of the summer season due to COVID concerns. We are also thrilled that we can add Durban to our local network. The short-haul flight is a vital one in linking two economically important cities. We will be announcing a special Durban fare deal for our Voyager programme members shortly.”

Kgokolo says as SAA begins its first full year of operations after business rescue, all indications point to a successful operational start. “With a constant eye on finances we are evaluating passenger load on our routes with a view to adding and subtracting if necessary. In addition, one of our principle focus points in coming months will be strengthening existing relationships with our alliance partners with a view to offering passengers more international flight opportunities as well as looking for more cargo prospects.”

SAA also turns eighty-eight on the first of February. Notes Kgokolo, “This birthday gives all of us a chance to pause and reflect the brand values on which the carrier was built, namely safety and exemplary service. SAA is one of the oldest airline brands in the world and despite the recent difficulties remains a globally respected carrier. Our ongoing pledge to passengers is to continue to live those values as we take SAA on its new journey to growth and success.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
19 January 2022 - SAA to restart flights to Durban - Back by popular demand Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (19 January 2022) – South African Airways (SAA) is to resume flights to Durban with three times daily return service from Friday, 4^th March 2022.

SAA’s Interim Chief Executive Officer Thomas Kgokolo says, “The short-haul route between Johannesburg and Durban is one of the busiest in South Africa, and our customers and partners have been asking us to fly this route since we took to the skies again in September 2021. We’ve been waiting for the data to guide us on timing and we’re delighted that the time is now right to add this important route back to the SAA network and further support the recovery of South Africa’s business and tourism sectors.”

“SAA will make it easier for customers from across its growing Africa network to reach Durban on a single SAA ticket, and easier for Durbanites to conveniently connect on SAA to Accra, Harare, Kinshasa, Lagos, Lusaka and Mauritius services.”

Kgokolo says “SAA has been back in service for just over three months and is constantly evaluating passenger volumes and revenue projections on all its existing and target routes. The goal is to match capacity with demand as closely as possible and add new routes only where and when it makes sense.”

“The COVID-19 pandemic has radically changed the aviation industry the world over requiring airline’s to be nimble but deliberate with network plans. Our overriding remit is to make sure SAA becomes and remains a successful and profitable carrier in this constantly changing and highly competitive environment,” says Kgokolo.

Issued by Corporate Affairs
10 January 2022 - Statement by Interim Board of SAA on the handover of the first part of the State Capture Commission Report focusing on SAA Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (Monday, 10th January 2022) - The Interim Board of South African Airways welcomes the publication of the first part of the Report of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, Corruption and Fraud in the Public Sector, as handed to President Cyril Ramaphosa on 4 January 2022.

The SAA Interim Board was appointed on 8th December 2020. This Board and its Executive Management is constituted by professionals who were specifically selected on the basis of their non-association with the past of SAA. The principle focus of the board of SAA is to guide, advise and oversee the strategic management of the carrier as it emerges out of business rescue towards a sustainable and profitable future. This is underpinned by a driving ethos of safety and professionalism that always puts the customer first. This is also being done as SAA prepares to play a vital role ahead of the formal acquisition by a strategic equity partner.

The Commission’s report is of particular interest to the Board and management as Chapter 1 deals with South African Airways and its associated companies. The Board has fully supported the Commission during its work, and are currently reviewing the report systematically.

Guided by appropriate legal counsel, the Board will cooperate with, and support law enforcement agencies in their pursuit of prosecutions, and where necessary, will institute internal investigations and disciplinary processes with the aim of cleaning the company of all vestiges of its shameful past as exposed in the Commission Report.

Consonant with its fiduciary responsibility and legal obligations under the Public Finance Management Act, the Board will take whatever actions required to recover any assets lost or monies misappropriated from SAA.

As it remains focused on the current and future strategic vision of the business, the Board commits that the findings and recommendations of the Commission will be immediately implemented throughout all levels of the company. This, it is believed, will foster a culture of transparency, accountability and ethical conduct within the SAA group.

In the meantime, the Board is looking forward to the finalisation of Part III of the report, which will include a summary of the Report as a whole.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:
Ms. Vimla Maistry
Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com
Mobile: +27 83 324 3620
Office: +27 11 978 2303
Web: www.flysaa.com
29 December 2021 - SAA confirms extension of travel ban to Mauritius until 31 January 2022 Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (29 December 2021) – Following the travel ban imposed by the Mauritian government on all commercial flights from South Africa to Mauritius until Friday, 31 December 2021. South African Airways (SAA) confirms that the ban has been extended for a month and all flights from Johannesburg to the island is suspended until Monday, 31 January 2022.

The extension of the travel ban by the Government of Mauritius is as a result of the new COVID-19 variant and is effective immediately. SAA will continue to monitor the situation closely, always putting the health and safety of its customers first.

Customers are advised that SA190/SA191 to and from Mauritius will be cancelled up to and including 31 January 2022.

SAA says further clarification can be obtained from the Call Center on +27 (0) 11 978 1111 and select option one (1) for assistance, alternatively send an email to Reservationsjnb@flysaa.com or reach us on Twitter at flysaa_care.

SAA regrets any inconvenience to its customers as a result of the extended suspension, the airline encourages all customers to visit the website www.flysaa.com for further updates.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com

07 December 2021 - SAA has signed a co-operation agreement with local carrier Cemair Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (7 December 2021) - SAA has signed a co-operation agreement with local and regional carrier CemAir that extends the route network reach of both operators and offers customers using both airlines on a multi-destination voyage a seamless check-in experience.

SAA’s Interim Chief Executive Officer Thomas Kgokolo says, “Airlines the world over constantly strive for efficiency and the benefit for the customer is that this agreement is convenient and lowers the cost of booking one ticket instead of two separate tickets. Fares will be issued on one itinerary and ticket, guaranteeing connectivity to more than one destination. It also allows passengers to through check-in their baggage between connecting flights of the two carriers without going through an entire check-in process again.”

Over the past few years, we have watched CemAir grow into a respected aviation brand with a loyal and growing customer base. This interline arrangement enables flight scheduling connection and flexibility for time-sensitive passengers. It also adds more destinations to the route network of both airlines. These additional routes are ones not currently serviced by SAA and includes Luanda, Durban, Hoedspruit, George, Kimberly, Bloemfontein, Plettenberg Bay, Margate, Sishen and Gqeberha. We are thrilled to be partnering with CemAir”, says Kgokolo.

Miles van der Molen, Chief Executive Officer of CemAir said, “We are excited to partner with South African Airways, one of the oldest airlines on the continent and a brand known by perhaps every South African. Our interline partnership will provide our customers with savings and convenience as passengers can now seamlessly connect between the two growing networks. As we continue our expansion during the Covid period, we realise now more than ever that partnerships are key to our success and working with SAA could not have come at a better time. We hope this is just the first step in a commercial partnership that will last many years.”

This interline agreement informs SAA’s continuing strategy to grow the carrier, responsibly, profitably, and sustainably after resuming operations at the end of September.

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Paul Botes

Chief Commercial Officer

Cemair (Pty) Ltd

Mobile: +27 (0)72 514 2007

Email: paul@cemair.co.za

Website: www.cemair.co.za/www.flycemair.co.za

Ms Vimla Maistry

Lead Corporate Affairs

South African Airways (SAA)

Mobile: +27 (0) 83 324 3620

kuria.kanying@kenya-airways.com

02 December 2021 - SAA confirms approval of Mango's Business Rescue Plan Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (2^nd December 2021) – South African Airways (SAA) confirms that the amended business rescue (BR) plan of Mango Airlines was tabled for voting at a meeting of creditors today.

The BR plan was approved for implementation which also paves the way for Mango to find an equity partner.

According to the BR practitioners the process to secure a successful bidder, inclusive of concluding the relevant acquisition agreements, is anticipated to be completed by the end of March 2022.

ENDS

Issued By: Corporate Affairs
01 December 2021 - SAA informs customers of new travel requirements for arrivals in Zimbabwe Collapsed Content
Johannesburg (1 December 2021) – South African Airways (SAA), confirms that our operations out of Johannesburg to Harare, Zimbabwe will operate as per schedule and depart Johannesburg tomorrow, 2^nd December 2021 on SA022 at 10h30.

Customers travelling to Harare, will with immediate effect, be subjected to additional health protocols, as per the Zimbabwe Ministry of Health’s directive.
- Every person arriving in Harare must have a negative PCR Health Certificate valid for 48 hours from the date and time of issue of such a certificate.
- Notwithstanding the above, passengers arriving in Zimbabwe will be subject to a PCR test at the airport.
- Customers who have a negative PCR result will be quarantined for 10 days at their own cost at a government designated site.
- Customers who have a positive PCR result will be quarantined for a period of 14 days
- Quarantine centres will be published by the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MOHCC). No home quarantine will be permitted.
SAA encourages customers who require clarification to contact the call centre on +27 11 978 1111, selecting option one (1) for assistance, alternatively send an email to SAACustomerservice@flysaa.com or reach us on Twitter at flysaa_care for assistance. Further updates will be shared via our website at www.flysaa.com

ENDS

Media Enquiries may be directed to:

Ms Vimla Maistry

Email: vimlamaistry@flysaa.com

Mobile: +27 83 324 3620

Office: +27 11 978 2303

Web: www.flysaa.com
27 November 2021 - SAA advises of further COVID-19 restrictions impacting customers to Mauritius Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (27^th November 2021) – South African Airways (SAA) advises all customers of the decision by the Mauritian authorities to implement a travel ban on all passengers leaving South Africa with effect from 28^th November 2021. The scheduled flight SA190 from Johannesburg to Mauritius on Sunday, 28^th November 2021 is now cancelled. This flight will now operate to Mauritius as a ferry flight.

These further restrictions by the government of Mauritius will remain in place until further notice. SAA will still operate passenger flight SA191 departing Mauritius at 16h35 on 28^th November 2021; this flight is already fully booked.

The Government of Mauritius has undertaken to arrange a Repatriation flight for its citizens, Resident and Occupational Permit Holders who are currently in South Africa. The helpdesk of the Mauritian Ministry of Foreign Affairs may be contacted via the e-mail address: mfaconsular@govmu.org

For further clarification, customers may contact the SAA Call Centre on +2711 978 1111, selecting option one (1) , alternatively send an email to SAACustomerService@flysaa.com or reach us on Twitter at flysaa_care for assistance. Further updates on the resumption of flights will be shared via our website on www.flysaa.com.

ENDS

Issued By: Corporate Affairs
26 November 2021 - SAA provides 'Book with Confidence' reassurance for holiday season travel Collapsed Content

Johannesburg (26 November 2021) – During these uncertain days, South African Airways (SAA) remains alert as the health and safety of our customers is paramount.

Following the announcement by health authorities of a new COVID variant of concern, SAA customers can book and travel with confidence. SAA will offer the following flexibility in the event of new travel restrictions and a need for customers to revisit their travel plans for this festive period.A

SAA already allows one (1) free change on all fare types offered on SAA operated flights subject to fare conditions.

In addition, in the event of new travel restrictions, should a customer no longer wish to travel, SAA encourages that the ticket be exchanged for a credit voucher which will preserve the value of the ticket as well as extend the validity for use to 31 March 2023. To access the credit voucher application form, please log on to https://www.flysaa.com/za/en/voucherApplication.action. Alternatively, the booking may be cancelled, and a refund (including taxes) will be offered to the original form of payment.

Assistance will be provided to all ticketed passengers holding a South African Airways ticket via any SAA Call Centre, City Travel Office or Travel Agent with the relevant terms and conditions.

Interim Chief Executive Officer Thomas Kgokolo says, “We are mindful that change is our new normal, and we need to be as agile as possible to meet our customer needs and keep travellers informed of changes in regulations pertaining to travel restrictions as and when imposed by countries that SAA flies to.”

SAA encourages all customers to take special care when travelling. You can minimise your risk of becoming unwell by ensuring that your travel vaccinations (including against COVID19) are up to date. Follow local health advice and continue to take simple hygiene and infectious disease control steps.

All other related queries may be directed by email to SAAcustomerservice@flysaa.com

ENDS

Issued By: Corporate Affairs

23 November 2021 - Kenya Airways and South African Airways sign strategic partnership framework Collapsed Content

Kenya Airways and South African Airways Sign Strategic Partnership Framework

The Strategic Partnership Framework between Kenya Airways and South African Airways is a key milestone towards co-starting a Pan African Airline Group

Johannesburg, November 23rd, 2021 — Kenya’s national carrier, Kenya Airways PLC (KQ), has signed a Strategic Partnership Framework today with South African Airways (SAA), a key milestone towards co-starting a Pan African Airline Group by 2023. The partnership framework follows the Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) that the two airlines signed two months ago to foster the exchange of knowledge, expertise, innovation, digital technologies, and best practice between the two airlines.

The signing of the Strategic Partnership Framework by the two African airlines will see both airlines work together to increase passenger traffic, cargo opportunities, and general trade by taking advantage of strengths in South Africa, Kenya, and Africa. It is expected that the partnership will improve the financial viability of the two airlines. Customers will also benefit from more competitive price offering for both passenger and cargo segment.

The signing of the Strategic Partnership Framework was witnessed by President Uhuru Kenyatta and his South African host, President Cyril Ramaphosa on the second day of President Kenyatta's three-day State visit to South Africa. The Strategic Partnership Framework was signed by KQ Chairman Michael Joseph and SAA Chairman John Lamola in Johannesburg South Africa.

The partnership framework aligns well with the aspirations of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA) of providing a single market for goods and services, facilitated by movement of persons and goods to deepen the economic integration and prosperity of the African continent. It also includes demand recovery and other cost containment strategies which will aid the recovery of both carriers in an increasingly competitive African airline environment.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, KQ Chairman Michael Joseph said, “This cooperation aligns with Kenya Airways’ core purpose of 'Contributing to the sustainable development of Africa' and is based on mutual benefits. It will increase connectivity through passenger traffic, cargo opportunities, while enhancing the implementation of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA). The geo location of the two countries will make the Pan-African Airline Group attractive by creating the most formidable Airline Group that is expected to take advantage of strengths in South Africa, Kenya, and Africa.”

Both airlines remain committed to their financial turnaround strategy. One of the pillars to achieve this is coming together and combining assets to provide a more robust and ultimately competitive aviation ecosystem to pursue the commercial viability of both carriers.

The partnership of will improve the financial viability of the both airlines by creating the most formidable air transport connection in Africa by benefiting from at least two attractive hubs of Johannesburg and Nairobi. It will ignite the Kenya and South Africa tourism circuits, which account for significant portions of the respective country’s GDP,” said SAA Chairman John Lamola.

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About Kenya Airways

About South Africa Airways

South Africa Airways (SAA) began operations on 1 February 1934. SAA, is a leading carrier in Africa, serving regional destinations between Johannesburg and six African destinations - Accra, Kinshasa, Harare, Lusaka, Lagos (from 12^th December 2021), Mauritius and 1 domestic route between Johannesburg and Cape Town. It is a member of the largest international airline network, Star Alliance. SAA’s core business is the provision of passenger airline and cargo transport services together with related services, which are provided through SAA and its wholly owned subsidiaries: SAA Technical (SAAT), a world class maintenance facility and Air Chefs, the catering entity of SAA. SAAT has particularly been successful in the delivery of high-quality maintenance services such as; major airframe checks; engine overhaul; mechanical components; avionics and line maintenance. From its first flight in 1934, SAA have welcomed the world to South Africa by showing off the warm generous heart of the country. The airline has more than 80 years of excellence and innovation to draw on.

For media queries please contact:

Kuria Kanyingi – Senior Communications Officer, Kenya Airways

Vimla Maistry – Lead Corporate Affairs

South African Airways (SAA)