South African Airways, the flag carrier of South Africa, was founded in 1934 by the Government of South Africa. It operates from its hub at the OR Tambo International Airport near Johannesburg, with Cape Town International Airport as its focus city. South African Airways has grown to become a significant player in Africa with services to 26 countries landing in 38 cities. The airline is one among the few to fly to all six continents barring Antarctica.
South African Airways operates a fleet of 54 aircraft comprising 47 Airbus aircraft and 7 Boeing aircraft.
The IATA code for South African Airways is SA. The ICAO code for South African Airways is SAA. The Callsign for South African Airways is SPRINGBOK.
South African Airways Partners
South African Airways is a Star Alliance partner. Besides, the airline is in partnership with Mango Airlines, South African Express Airways and Airlink. The airline is in code share agreement with over 30 airlines throughout the world.
Cabins
South African Airways offers Business and Economy class of travel. The Business Cabin comes with convenient services including flat bed rated as 5 stars by Skytrax. The Economy Class seats are more comfortable than normal seats on other airlines.
Special Services
South African Airways offers Ob Biz services which is totally dedicated to corporate clients whose employees can travel with several benefits. The unique feature of this service is that it is completely online.
South African Airways runs a loyalty program under the “Voyager” brand. The program is offered in five categories – Lifetime Platinum, Platinum, Gold, Silver and Blue. Each category has a bevy of benefits exclusive to that category.
South African Airways Baggage Allowance
Baggage allowance is based on either Business Class or Economy Class travel. On Economy Class the hand baggage allowance is one piece of weight not exceeding 8 Kg. On Business Class, the allowance is 2 pieces of weight not exceeding 8 Kg each. The size restriction is 56 x 36 x 23 cm.
On Economy Class the checked baggage allowance is one piece of weight not exceeding 23 Kg. On Business Class, the allowance is 2 pieces of weight not exceeding 32 Kg each. The size restriction is 158 cm, which is the sum of length + breadth + height.
SAA Mobile
South African Airways SAA Mobile service is very convenient for passengers to access any kind of information related to their travel. The service is offered through the SAA App. The service is across all devices on Windows, Android and iPhone. Passengers can obtain services such as tracking checked baggage, flight status and on the go check-in.
South African Airways Checklist for International Travel
Before going to the airport to catch a flight the airline offers a checklist to ensure proper documentation is carried. A valid return ticket, passport, visa and health documents wherever necessary are required to be carried as essential items before the airline allows passengers to board a flight.
Accolades
South African Airways is the official airline of Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) and the South African Rugby Team. The airline has won 14 Skytrax awards as the best African airline.