South African Airways Flight Tickets
43 countries · 74 cities
South African Airways About
South African Airways (SAA): South African Airways (SAA) was established in 1934 as the national airline of South Africa. The company's headquarters is located at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, which is also the main hub of the airline. The second largest hub is Cape Town International Airport (CPT). As a full-service airline, South African Airways offers premium services to its passengers and has a wide network worldwide as a member of Star Alliance. Fleet: The airline's fleet includes Airbus A320, Airbus A330, and long-haul Airbus A340-300 aircraft. As of 2025, SAA operates with approximately 20 aircraft and has restructured its operations to serve flights to 17 destinations. SAA offers its passengers Economy Class and Business Class cabin options, providing flexible ticket options with various fare brands such as Saver Fares, Select Fares, and Plus Fares. Loyalty Program: The airline's loyalty program, Voyager, offers passengers the opportunity to earn flight points and gain various benefits. Notably recognized for its flights to destinations such as South Africa and South Sudan, SAA provides a comfortable travel experience for its passengers with a full-service approach. Its long-haul flight capabilities and connections through the Star Alliance network are among the features that make the airline unique.
Popular departure routes with South African Airways
Direct Flights(60)
Popular arrival routes with South African Airways
Direct Flights(60)
South African Airways - Destinations
South Africa16
Upington, Umtata, Phalaborwa +13
Mozambique5
Beira, Nampula, Pemba +2
Zimbabwe3
Bulawayo, Harare, Victoria Falls
Zambia3
Lusaka, Ndola, Livingstone
United States2
New York, Washington
Republic of the Congo2
Brazzaville, Pointe Noire
Germany2
Frankfurt, Munich
Botswana2
Gaborone, Maun
Democratic Republic of the Congo2
Lubumbashi, Kinshasa
Malawi2
Blantyre, Lilongwe
Namibia2
Windhoek, Walvis Bay
Australia2
Sydney, Perth
Thailand1
Bangkok
China1
Beijing
Burundi1
Bujumbura
Senegal1
Dakar
Brazil1
Sao Paulo
Gabon1
Libreville
South African Airways - Destinations
South African Airways: As the national airline of South Africa, it offers a comprehensive destination network. By 2025, the airline will serve 17 different destinations. Its main hubs are O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and Cape Town International Airport. From these hubs, both domestic and international flights are operated.
SAA: In addition to flying to various points across the African continent, it also offers services to European and other intercontinental destinations. There are flights to popular domestic destinations like Durban and international points such as South Sudan from South Africa. Being a member of Star Alliance provides passengers with a wide network of connections and transfer opportunities. This partnership offers significant advantages, especially for travel to Europe and Asia.
Seasonal routes: May vary according to tourism demand, but flights to South Africa's tourist attractions generally continue throughout the year. This route network facilitates passengers' access to various destinations worldwide and makes travel plans more flexible.
South African Airways - Baggage Policy
Hand Luggage / Cabin Luggage: When traveling with South African Airways, Economy Class passengers are allowed to carry one piece of hand luggage. This luggage must not exceed a maximum weight of 8 kg and total dimensions of 115 cm. Business Class passengers are entitled to carry two pieces of hand luggage, each not exceeding 8 kg and 115 cm in total dimensions. There is no additional information for personal items in the cabin, but according to general practices, a small bag or laptop bag can be carried.
Checked Luggage: Economy Class ticket holders are entitled to one piece of luggage weighing 23 kg and with total dimensions of 158 cm. Business Class passengers can carry two pieces of luggage, each weighing 32 kg and with dimensions of 158 cm. These allowances apply to flights to the United States. Luggage allowances may vary on other routes. There is an option to purchase extra luggage, and additional fees may apply for excess pieces or luggage exceeding size limits.
Special Luggage: There is no specific quota for sports equipment, but as a general practice, sports items can be transported for an additional fee. Musical instruments can be transported by purchasing an extra seat in the cabin. Passengers traveling with infants can carry one piece of luggage weighing 23 kg and a foldable stroller or car seat free of charge. Wheelchairs are generally transported free of charge, but it may be beneficial to notify in advance.
South African Airways - Check-in & Seat Selection
Check-in Options: When traveling with South African Airways, your online check-in starts 24 hours before your flight and continues until 90 minutes before departure, or 2 hours before for international flights. You can also check in using your mobile devices, and this method is available until 60 minutes prior to departure. At the airport, you can complete your check-in using self-service kiosks or at check-in counters. You can show your boarding pass digitally or obtain a printed copy.
Seat Selection: Seat selection is generally a paid service with South African Airways. However, standard seats can usually be selected for free during online check-in. Passengers seeking more comfort may opt for premium seats that offer extra legroom, which may incur an additional fee. You can select your seat during the ticket booking process or through "Manage My Booking" before your flight.
South African Airways - Meal Service
South African Airways offers complimentary meal service to its passengers. Economy Class passengers are treated to light snacks or multi-course meal options depending on the length of the flight. Business Class passengers can enjoy multi-course meals designed by a chef, South African wines, and Méthode Cap Classique sparkling wine on long-haul flights.
For passengers with special dietary needs, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meal options are available. Kosher meal requests must be made at least 72 hours before the flight date. Other special meal requests should be ordered at least 48 hours in advance. Meals are provided free of charge on board, and there are no branded café services or purchase options available.
South African Airways - Loyalty Program
Voyager loyalty program offers a wide range of benefits to South African Airways passengers. Members can earn miles on flights with South African Airways and its airline partners within the Star Alliance network. Additionally, there are opportunities to earn miles with various partners such as hotel stays, car rentals, and financial transactions. The Voyager program has four membership tiers: Blue, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. To reach Silver tier, 20,000 Tier Miles are required annually, and this tier offers benefits such as extra baggage allowance. At the Gold tier, members enjoy privileges like lounge access and priority boarding with 45,000 Tier Miles. Platinum members can benefit from top-level privileges and greater flexibility in in-flight services with 95,000 Tier Miles. The earned miles can be used on flights with SAA and partner airlines. Furthermore, there is the option to redeem points with airline partners such as Emirates and Virgin Atlantic. The Voyager program provides valuable opportunities and comfort for frequent travelers on both domestic and international flights.
South African Airways - Travel Classes
Business Class (Long Haul): When you travel in the Business Class cabins of South African Airways, an unforgettable journey experience awaits you. Starting with a welcome drink, you will receive an amenity kit to meet your travel needs. A high-quality dining experience is offered with delicious à la carte menus, a cheese platter that is a source of pride for South Africa, and a carefully selected wine list. Thanks to the power ports available at each seat, you can work and charge your devices. When you wish to sleep, flatbed seats made of leather and fabric that can fully recline to 180 degrees await you. These seats are nearly 2 meters long, providing enhanced privacy and individual aisle access. You can watch your favorite movie uninterrupted with noise-canceling headphones.
Business Class (Short Haul): The comfort of Business Class awaits you on your short-haul flights as well. With adjustable headrests, ample storage space, generous legroom, and leg supports, you will have a comfortable journey. Additionally, there are USB and laptop charging points for each passenger, allowing you to continue using your devices throughout the flight.
Economy Class (Long Haul): Long-haul flights in Economy Class offer extra space and generous legroom. Passengers are provided with a handy amenity kit that includes socks, an eye mask, a toothbrush, and toothpaste. You can pre-order meals for your children and make reservations for baby cradles. While children are offered a fun activity pack, the in-flight entertainment system includes channels specifically for kids. On A330-300 aircraft, there are 203 newly designed slim seats. Each seat features a 10-inch screen, USB charging ports, and shared PC power points. The in-flight entertainment system available on request makes long flights more enjoyable.
Economy Class (Short Haul): Whether for business or holiday short-haul flights, Economy Class offers style and comfort together. Innovative slim seats provide more living space, while adjustable headrests and earphones ensure your comfort throughout the flight.
South African Airways - Cancellation & Changes
Cancellation Policy: South African Airways' cancellation policies vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. While some tickets may incur penalties for cancellations, others may not charge fees for cancellations made within a certain timeframe. However, there is no comprehensive option like a general 24-hour free cancellation policy. Therefore, it would be beneficial to check the specific conditions for your ticket in advance.
Change Rules: Ticket changes include date and route changes, and these processes may be subject to the ticket's fare rules and any fare differences. Regarding name changes, South African Airways has specific rules. For more information and to apply, the "Request Traveler Name Change" page can be visited. Flexible ticket options provide the flexibility to make changes, allowing you to plan your journey more comfortably.
Refund Process: Refund requests are processed within 21 business days after the necessary documents are completed. Refunds can be made to the original payment method or as a travel voucher. In cases of no-show, South African Airways reserves the right to cancel subsequent or return reservations, and fares may apply for such situations. For refunds and details, the "Refund Application" page can be consulted.
South African Airways - Seat Comfort & Entertainment
Seat Comfort and Legroom: South African Airways aims to provide its passengers with a comfortable travel experience on long-haul flights. The Economy Class seats on the Airbus A330-300 aircraft offer a comfortable seating area with approximately 81 cm of legroom and 45 cm of seat width. These seats are fabric-covered and prioritize comfort even during long periods of sitting with their ergonomic design. In Business Class, passengers have access to more space and a greater recline angle, which provides significant comfort on long flights.
In-Flight Entertainment: To ensure you have an enjoyable time during your flights, South African Airways offers 10-inch personal screens for each seat on its Airbus A330-300 aircraft. These screens feature a variety of movie, series, music, and game options. Each seat is equipped with a USB charging point, while Business Class passengers also have laptop charging points available. While there is no definitive information about Wi-Fi service, passengers are advised to download their content in advance. Thanks to the entertainment system, you can enjoy a pleasant and comfortable journey, especially on long-haul flights.
South African Airways - Special Services
Unaccompanied Minor Service: South African Airways offers a special service for unaccompanied minors. This service is generally applicable for children aged between 5 and 11 years. You need to request this service at the time of booking. The airline staff closely attends to the children before, during, and after the flight to ensure a safe and comfortable travel experience.
Pregnant Passenger Policy: There is no specific information regarding how many weeks pregnant passengers can travel and the health report requirements. However, as a general practice, a doctor's report may be required before travel in the later stages of pregnancy (typically after the 36th week).
Assistance for Disabled Passengers: South African Airways provides wheelchair and mobility assistance for disabled passengers. It is recommended to request these services at the time of booking or at least 72 hours in advance. The airline aims to provide a comfortable travel experience by offering special equipment and support tailored to the needs of passengers.
Other Services: Cots for infants weighing up to 10 kg and measuring no more than 75 cm are available for passengers traveling with babies. Since the availability of this service is limited, advance reservation is recommended. Additionally, priority boarding service is offered for disabled passengers, unaccompanied minors, and families with young children. While there is no specific information about VIP and CIP services, special arrangements can be made for group bookings.
South African Airways - Pet Transport Policy
Cabin Pet Transport: South African Airways generally does not allow pets in the cabin. However, service dogs are considered an exception. Therefore, there is no option to carry small pets in the cabin during your journey.
Cargo/Baggage Section Transport: Pets can be transported in the cargo section as checked baggage, provided they are in a secure container. The dimensions of the container must not exceed 1x1 meter, and the total weight must not exceed 23 kg. For international flights, pets are typically transported as cargo, and cargo procedures may also be required on some regional routes.
Required Documents and Rules: Original vaccination and rabies certificates, valid health/vaccine certificates, and entry permits are required for your pet's travel. Special policies apply for guide and support dogs. It is important to have all documents ready during the booking process. Pets under 8 weeks old are not accepted.
South African Airways - Travel Tips
You can catch economical ticket opportunities by making early reservations for your travel with South African Airways. Especially setting flexible travel dates can help reduce costs. When selecting seats on flights, opting for exit row seats or seats at the front of the aircraft that offer more legroom can enhance your comfort. O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and Cape Town International Airport are the main hubs of the airline, where you can enjoy a comfortable wait with lounge access at these terminals. On your connecting flights, you can often experience a smoother connection thanks to the Star Alliance partnership. Additionally, with South African Airways’ mobile app, you can easily manage your ticket and access up-to-date flight information.
The information on this page about South African Airways is for general informational purposes only. Airlines may change their baggage rules, travel classes, cancellation/change policies and other services without prior notice. For the most current and accurate information, please visit the official South African Airways website. Tripuck cannot be held responsible for any changes to this information.
Last updated: 28 October 2026
South African Airways - Contact Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Hand Luggage / Cabin Luggage: When traveling with South African Airways, Economy Class passengers are allowed to carry one piece of hand luggage. This luggage must not exceed a maximum weight of 8 kg and total dimensions of 115 cm.
Check-in Options: When traveling with South African Airways, your online check-in starts 24 hours before your flight and continues until 90 minutes before departure, or 2 hours before for international flights. You can also check in using your mobile devices, and this method is available until 60 minutes prior to departure.
South African Airways operates flights to 74 cities in 43 countries. South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe are among its most popular destinations.
South African Airways ticket prices vary by route and date. The current lowest fare starts from £111. Use the search box above for the latest prices.
South African Airways offers complimentary meal service to its passengers. Economy Class passengers are treated to light snacks or multi-course meal options depending on the length of the flight.
Voyager loyalty program offers a wide range of benefits to South African Airways passengers. Members can earn miles on flights with South African Airways and its airline partners within the Star Alliance network.
Cancellation Policy: South African Airways' cancellation policies vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. While some tickets may incur penalties for cancellations, others may not charge fees for cancellations made within a certain timeframe.
Cabin Pet Transport: South African Airways generally does not allow pets in the cabin. However, service dogs are considered an exception.
