About South African Airways
South African Airways is a legacy carrier — think full-service meals, checked bags, and a network built for connecting Africa to the rest of the world rather than undercutting budget airlines on price. Its main hub is Johannesburg (JNB), which anchors 16 of its 38 non-stop routes, and the total network stretches across 105,876 km touching 18 airports. This isn't a point-to-point discount operation. It's an airline that's been moving people across continents for decades, with a route map that leans heavily into Africa, the Indian Ocean islands, and long-haul intercontinental flying. South Africa dominates the network with 21 routes, but SAA also punches into Ghana, Mauritius, Brazil, and Zimbabwe — a mix that tells you exactly who this airline is built for.
Why fly South African Airways?
Honestly? The route map is the biggest reason. If you're flying into southern or west Africa, SAA connects dots that other carriers simply don't. The JNB hub is one of the busiest in Africa, and having 16 routes running through it means connections actually work. The Perth-to-Johannesburg route (PER-JNB) at 8,309 km is SAA's longest — and for Australians heading to Africa, it's one of very few direct options that doesn't require a Middle Eastern layover. Service is full-service, not budget. You're getting checked luggage and a proper meal — things that matter on a 10-hour flight. And if Africa is your focus, the Cape Town (CPT) hub adds useful flexibility for southern Africa itineraries. It's not the cheapest option, but you're paying for convenience and coverage.
South African Airways hub airports
- JNB Johannesburg — 16 South African Airways routes from South Africa
- CPT Cape Town — 3 South African Airways routes from South Africa
- MRU Mauritius — 2 South African Airways routes from Mauritius
- ACC Accra — 2 South African Airways routes from Ghana
- GRU Sao Paulo — 2 South African Airways routes from Brazil
Top destination countries on South African Airways
- South Africa — 21 South African Airways routes
- Ghana — 2 South African Airways routes
- Mauritius — 2 South African Airways routes
- Brazil — 2 South African Airways routes
- Zimbabwe — 2 South African Airways routes
- The Democratic Republic of The Congo — 2 South African Airways routes
- Cote d'Ivoire — 1 South African Airways routes
- United Republic of Tanzania — 1 South African Airways routes
Tips for booking South African Airways
JNB is your friend here — if you can route through Johannesburg, you'll have the most connection options. CPT only has 3 routes, so don't count on it for complex itineraries. Mauritius (MRU) and Accra (ACC) each anchor 2 routes, useful if those are your end destinations but limited for onward connections. SAA is a legacy carrier, so fare classes matter — cheaper tickets often come with restrictions on changes or upgrades, so read the fine print before you book. First-time flyers should double-check baggage allowances per fare class rather than assuming. And if Brazil is on your radar, SAA's 2 routes there are genuinely useful — it's a less obvious routing that can save you a connection.
Frequently asked questions about South African Airways
Where does South African Airways fly?
South African Airways operates 38 routes primarily throughout Southern Africa, West Africa, and the Indian Ocean region. Key destinations include major cities across South Africa, Ghana, and Mauritius.
What is South African Airways's main hub?
South African Airways's primary hub is O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg (JNB), which serves as the airline's main connection point for regional and international flights.
Is South African Airways a legacy carrier, low-cost airline, or regional carrier?
South African Airways operates as a full-service regional carrier, offering scheduled service across Southern and West Africa with a focus on connecting passengers through its Johannesburg hub.
When should I book flights with South African Airways?
It is generally recommended to book regional flights 4-6 weeks in advance for better fare options. Booking early typically offers more competitive pricing and greater seat availability across different fare classes.
What are South African Airways's baggage and check-in policies?
Baggage allowances and check-in procedures vary by fare class and route. Passengers should check their specific booking details or contact South African Airways directly for exact baggage limits and check-in requirements for their flight.