What is South African Airways’ IATA code?

South African Airways’ IATA code is SA.

Which airline alliance is South African Airways part of?

South African Airways is a member of Star Alliance.

What is the South African Airways loyalty programme called?

South African Airways’ loyalty programme is called Voyager Miles.

What baggage allowance does South African Airways offer?

Economy Class passengers receive 1 checked bag up to 23kg, while Business Class passengers receive 2 checked bags up to 32kg each. Economy passengers may also carry 1 hand luggage bag up to 8kg.

How can I check in for South African Airways flights?

SAA online check-in opens 24 hours before departure. Domestic online check-in closes 90 minutes before departure, while international online check-in closes 2 hours before departure.

What are popular South African Airways destinations?

Popular South African Airways destinations include Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Harare, Lusaka, Perth, London, Lagos and Mauritius.

Cheap South African Airways (SAA) Flights & Specials

Popular flights with SAA

Prices observed in the past 7 days start from R859 one-way and R1788 round trip. Fares and availability may change at any time, and additional terms may apply.

One-Way

Johannesburg

R1339

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IATA code:

Hub airport:

O.R. Tambo International

Alliance:

Star Alliance

Loyalty program:

Voyager Miles

Inflight magazine:

Sawubona

Frequently asked questions

About

Flying since 1934, South African Airways is all about connecting Africa to the world with top-notch service and that signature South African warmth. Operating flights from Johannesburg to Accra, Kinshasa, Harare, Lusaka, Lagos, and Mauritius – plus the ever-popular Joburg to Cape Town route – SAA is growing its network to bring even more destinations within reach.

As a proud Star Alliance member, SAA unlocks access to over 1,300 airports worldwide. Whether it’s passengers, cargo, or gourmet in-flight meals courtesy of Air Chefs, this airline knows how to deliver. With a legacy of over 90 years, SAA is ready to Go the Distance – because great journeys start with a great airline. Book your cheap SAA flights to New York, London, Cape Town and other destinations!

Baggage

Hand Baggage

Economy Class: 1 piece, up to 8kg Business Class: 2 pieces, up to 8kg each

All hand luggage must fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat.

Checked Baggage

Your checked baggage allowance depends on your flight:

Domestic Flights (within South Africa): Economy: 1 piece, up to 23kg Business: 2 pieces, up to 32kg each

Regional Flights (e.g., Harare, Mauritius, Lusaka): Economy: 1 piece, up to 23kg Business: 2 pieces, up to 32kg each

International Flights: Economy: 1 piece, up to 23kg Business: 2 pieces, up to 32kg each

Each checked bag can’t exceed 158cm (length width height).

For Voyager Members

Frequent flyer? Enjoy extra baggage: Silver Members: 1 extra bag (23kg) Gold Members: 1 extra bag (based on class) Platinum Members: 1 extra bag (32kg) Lifetime Platinum Members: 2 extra bags (32kg each)

Check-in

To make airport check-in stress-free:

SAA Check-In Rules

Online Check-In Availability: Opens 24 hours before departure. Domestic Flights: Closes 90 minutes before departure. International Flights: Closes 2 hours before departure.

Airport Check-In Domestic Flights: Opens 2 hours before departure and closes 45 minutes before departure. International Flights: Opens 3 hours before departure and closes 1 hour before departure. Please ensure you arrive early to avoid any delays or missing flights.

On-board

Onboard Experience with SAA

Here’s what you can expect:

Seating & Space Economy Class: Comfortable seats with plenty of legroom and adjustable headrests for a relaxed flight. Business Class: Spacious, fully flat beds and direct aisle access for ultimate comfort and privacy.

Food & Drink Economy Class: Delicious, freshly prepared meals with a South African twist. Business Class: Gourmet meals paired with fine wines for a first-class dining experience.

Entertainment Economy Class: In-flight entertainment with movies, TV shows, music, and more. Business Class: Larger screens and an even wider selection of entertainment.

Whether in Economy or Business, SAA ensures a comfortable, enjoyable flight from start to finish.

Destinations

Where Does SAA Fly?

Right now, SAA connects you between:

Domestic

Johannesburg Cape Town Durban Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)

Regional

Mauritius Lusaka (Zambia) Harare (Zimbabwe) Lagos (Nigeria) Accra (Ghana) Kinshasa (DRC)

International

New York (USA) London (UK) Frankfurt (Germany) Perth (Australia) Sao Paulo (Brazil)

Wherever you’re off to, SAA makes sure your journey is smooth and stress-free.

The information on this page is correct as of date of publishing. While every effort is made to keep information as fresh as possible, Travelstart takes no responsibility for any of the information being out of date or incorrectly noted.

Why fly with SAA

Award-Winning Excellence

South African Airways is still flying high, bagging awards like ‘Cleanest Airline in Africa’ at the 2024 Skytrax Awards and ranking third-best airline on the continent. SAA also scooped up ‘Africa’s Leading Airline’ and ‘Africa’s Leading Airline Brand’ at the World Travel Awards two years running.

Connecting you to the world

SAA connects travellers to 57 destinations across the continent and beyond. Whether it’s a business trip or an adventure in the making, SAA has the routes to get there. Plus, with Voyager Loyalty Points, every journey brings more rewards—because earning perks while exploring the world just makes sense.

People Focused Service

SAA puts people first, delivering world-class service with a proudly South African touch. From seamless check-ins to warm in-flight hospitality, every journey is designed with comfort and care in mind.