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SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYSInformation
| Airline | SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS | Major Routes | Johannesburg (JNB) to São Paulo (GRU), Brazil, to Perth (PER), Australia, to Accra (ACC), Ghana, to Lagos (LOS), Nigeria, etc |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official Site | https://www.flysaa.com/ | Check-In Counter | O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), Johannesburg: Terminal B 2nd floor, Cape Town International Airport (CPT), Cape Town: the Central Terminal Building 2nd floor |
| Year Established | 1934 | Main Destinations | Hong Kong, Singapore, Washington, London, Frankfurt, Zurich, Dakar, Mumbai, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Nairobi, Perth, Dubai, Cairo, Tokyo, etc |
| Alliance | Star Alliance | ||
| Frequent Flyer Program | Voyager |
SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS - Overview
1About South African Airways
Established in 1934, South African Airways (SAA) is the largest and oldest airline in Africa, based in Johannesburg and serving 56 cities, primarily across the African continent. SAA has a rich history and a strong international presence, including rejoining the International Civil Aviation Organization after 40 years and becoming a member of the Star Alliance in 2006. The airline operates the "Voyager" mileage program and is recognized for its punctuality, often ranking first and second in South Africa alongside its low-cost partner airline, Mango.
2A Relaxing Onboard Experience
Currently, there are no direct flights from Japan, but SAA offers connections from six Japanese airports via Hong Kong to Johannesburg. From Hong Kong to Johannesburg, the airline operates state-of-the-art Airbus aircraft. Economy Class features larger-than-average seats with 8.6-inch personal screens, while Business Class offers fully reclining 180-degree bed seats, providing one of the most spacious and comfortable experiences in the industry. Passengers can also enjoy the in-flight magazine Sawubona, which is available for free download via an app, showcasing SAA’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.
SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS - Checked Baggage / Cabin Baggage
Checked Baggage
For information regarding checked baggage regulations, please refer to the official South African Airways website.
| Size | ・Each checked bag must not exceed 158 cm (62 inches) in total dimensions (length + width + height). ・Special items such as sports equipment and musical instruments may have unique size requirements, which must be pre-arranged. |
| Weight | ・Economy Class passengers: Each checked bag can weigh up to 23 kg. ・Business Class passengers: Each checked bag can weigh up to 32 kg. ・Excess baggage fees apply if the weight allowance is exceeded. |
| Quantity | ・Economy Class passengers: 1 piece of checked baggage included. ・Business Class passengers: 2 pieces of checked baggage included. ・Additional baggage allowances can be purchased in advance. |
Cabin Baggage
For information regarding carry-on baggage regulations, please refer to the official South African Airways website.
| Size | ・Main cabin bag: Must not exceed 56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm. ・Personal item: Must not exceed 30 cm x 40 cm x 10 cm. ・Cabin baggage exceeding size limits must be checked in and may incur fees. |
|---|---|
| Weight | ・Main cabin bag: Each piece must weigh up to 8 kg. ・Cabin baggage exceeding weight limits must be checked in and may incur fees. |
| Quantity | ・Economy Class passengers: 1 main cabin bag and 1 personal item included. ・Business Class passengers: 2 main cabin bags and 1 personal item included. |
SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYSIn-flight Services
In-flight meals
The airline offers gourmet dishes crafted by award-winning chefs and was the first airline to be named an honorary member of the South African Chefs Association. A selection of premium South African wines is also available, ensuring a luxurious travel experience in the skies.
In-flight entertainment
Entertainment options available on flights longer than three hours include a wide variety of movies, TV shows, music, and interactive games. In addition to classics like chess and poker, passengers can also enjoy games such as slots and Volcanix.
SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYSFrequently Asked Questions
What are the differences between South African Airways' Economy fare options?
Economy fares include Saver, Plus, and Select. Saver is the most budget-friendly option but non-refundable and non-rebookable. Plus offers some flexibility with rebooking and partial refunds for a fee. Select provides the highest flexibility with free cancellations and rebookings (within the same fare class) and allows full Voyager Miles accumulation.
What benefits come with Business Class fares on South African Airways?
Business Class fares include Priority and Premium tiers. Priority offers premium benefits like lounge access, priority services, and free rebooking or cancellations. Premium provides maximum flexibility, enhanced lounge access, the best seating options, and additional baggage allowances.
What can passengers expect in Economy Class on South African Airways?
Economy Class offers ergonomic seating with adjustable headrests, personal entertainment screens on long-haul flights, and amenity kits for added comfort. Complimentary meals, snacks, and beverages are provided, with special meal requests available.
What features are included in Business Class seating on SAA?
Business Class features lie-flat seats with 180° recline for long-haul flights, personal entertainment systems, premium amenity kits, and à la carte dining. Passengers also enjoy priority boarding and lounge access.
How does South African Airways’ Voyager program work?
Voyager allows passengers to earn miles based on flight distance, fare class, and ticket type. Miles can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and extra baggage. Membership tiers include Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Lifetime Platinum, offering increasing benefits such as priority boarding and lounge access.
Can Voyager miles be earned through non-flight activities?
Yes, Voyager members can earn miles through partnerships with hotels, car rental services, and retail outlets. This allows members to accumulate miles even when not flying.
I have allergies. Is it possible to arrange special meals?
Yes, South African Airways offers special meals, including gluten-free and nut-free options, on all routes. These meals can be arranged by booking at least 48 hours before departure. Please note that kosher meals require a reservation at least 72 hours in advance.
What kind of meals are served in Business Class?
In Business Class, passengers are treated to world-class cuisine crafted by South African celebrity chefs Reuben Riffel and Benny Masekwameng, rivaling the finest restaurants globally. Reuben runs restaurants in Cape Town's One&Only Hotel and in Franschhoek, while Benny is well-known as a judge on TV programs, including South Africa’s version of MasterChef. To complement the meal, award-winning South African wines and champagne are offered. From appetizers to desserts, every dish is carefully curated to provide a premium dining experience.