South African Airways (SAA) - International | Flight Centre South Africa

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Please check with your Flight Centre travel expert for the latest news and keep an eye on important industry communication with our Travel News.

When will South African Airways resume international flights?

Currently, no indication has been provided by South African Airways for when flights will resume. International flights operated by South African Airways will not be available before 30 October 2021. Read more.

What are SAA's travel requirements regarding the COVID-19 pandemic?

As South African Airways aren't currently operational, there are no guidelines in place at this time.

How can I check my South African Airways flight's status?

Depending on where travel was booked, the flight status can be checked with your dedicated travel expert or direct bookings, online. However, at current South African Airways are non-operational.

What is happening to South African Airways?

South African Airways officially exited business rescue on 30 April 2021, with the continued suspension of domestic and regional travel until at least 30 June 2021 and international travel until 30 October 2021.

How do I check-in online for my SAA flight?

Online check-in can usually be facilitated through an airline's website closer to the time of departure. However, at current South African Airways are non-operational.

How do I check-in at the airport for my SAA flight?

Check-in can usually be facilitated at a dedicated check-in counter at the airport by presenting your booking reference. However, at current South African Airways are non-operational.

Which international destinations does SAA fly to now?

Currently, South African Airways are non-operational. Before entering business rescue proceedings, the international destinations serviced by South African Airways included New York, Washington, Frankfurt, London and Mauritius.

Cabin Classes

Economy

Economy Class cabins on South African Airways flights contain seats with a pitch from 31 to 34 inches and 6.8 inch seat back screens depending on the aircraft. The in-flight menu includes main meals, salads, breads, desserts, snacks and a range of beverages. Meals and beverages may either be complimentary or available to purchase depending on the fare type. Airbus A340-200, B737-800 and A319 aircraft offer Economy Class passengers the Passport or Matsushita 300 Audio Video On Demand entertainment systems featuring 15 movies, 12 shorts and 10 games. Other aircraft offer entertainment systems on flights longer than 3 hours.

Business

SAA's Business Class cabins contain flat beds with a pitch of 73 inches, in-seat power supply, adjustable lumbar support, in-seat telephones and personal screens. Passengers are provided duvets, pillows and amenity kits containing Clarins products. The in-flight menu includes 3-course meals made up of starters, main courses, desserts and cheeses. Business Class cabins have the Passport or Matsushita 300 Audio Video On Demand entertainment systems offering 15 movies, 12 shorts and 10 games.

Baggage

Economy Class passengers on South African Airways flights are allowed 1 piece of 8kg hand luggage. Checked baggage may not be included depending on the fare type. Fares that do include checked baggage allow for 23kg to 60kg depending on the destination. Please refer to the airline for more information. Business Class passengers are allowed 2 pieces of 8kg (each) hand luggage and 30kg to 90kg checked baggage depending on the destination. Please refer to the airline for more information.

Check-in Options

Check-in closes at 3 hours before the departure time for all flights to the USA. For all other international destinations check-in closes at 2.5 hours before the departure time.

Rewards Program

The SAA Voyager rewards program allows members to earn points when they fly with South African Airways, their affiliated airlines or shop with their partners including hotels, car hire companies, credit card programs and other retail companies. Accumulated points can be used towards flights, upgrades, accommodation, car hire and other benefits with South African Airways and their partners.

Lounges

South African Airways has 2 lounges located at O.R. Tambo International Airport. The Cycad First Class Lounge includes sleep rooms, showers, a cigar lounge, an audio-visual entertainment room, internet access, business facilities, an à la carte menu and a full service bar. The Business Class Lounge features dedicated children areas, showers, an audio-visual entertainment room, a staffed bar and a self service food area. Business Class passengers, First Class passengers flying with affiliated airlines and various SAA Voyager membership tiers have select access to lounges. Please refer to the airline for more details.