What's Happening?
South African Airways (SAA) is actively expanding its network through new codeshare partnerships and plans to grow its fleet by 2026. At the African Airlines Association annual meeting in Luanda, Angola, SAA signed a codeshare agreement with TAAG, allowing
both airlines to extend their reach. SAA will add its flight code to TAAG-operated flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town to Luanda, while TAAG will gain access to SAA's network, including destinations like Cape Town, Durban, and Harare. SAA, which resumed operations in September 2021 after near bankruptcy, is in a rebuilding phase. The airline plans to sign additional codeshare deals with Turkish Airlines, United Airlines, and others. Currently, SAA operates a fleet of 14 Airbus A320 narrowbodies and four widebodies, with plans to add more aircraft in 2026.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of SAA's codeshare partnerships and fleet is significant for the airline's recovery and growth strategy. By increasing its network reach, SAA aims to enhance its competitiveness in the global aviation market. The new partnerships will allow SAA to offer more destinations to its customers, potentially increasing passenger numbers and revenue. The fleet expansion, although delayed, is crucial for supporting these partnerships and improving connectivity. This development is also important for the U.S. market, as SAA plans to include destinations like Washington and New York in its long-haul network, potentially boosting tourism and business travel between the U.S. and Africa.
What's Next?
SAA is expected to issue a request for proposals for additional narrowbody and widebody aircraft by the end of the year. The airline is also preparing to sign more codeshare agreements in the coming year, which will further expand its network. As SAA continues to rebuild, it will focus on enhancing its connecting schedule around Johannesburg and Cape Town. The airline's long-term fleet renewal plan will be crucial for sustaining growth and maintaining competitiveness in the international market.
