SAA Soars with 20 Aircraft: More African Routes & Greater Seat Capacity

The resurgence of South African Airways (SAA) is taking off again, with the airline hitting a significant milestone by growing its fleet to 20 aircraft. This leap marks a strong rebound from just three years ago, when the carrier emerged from business rescue operating only six planes. Today, SAA’s expanded network sets the stage for more affordable and convenient African air travel.

Welcoming two leased A320 aircraft from AerCap, the world’s leading aircraft leasing firm, stands as a testament to SAA’s improving credit status in global aviation finance circles. These narrow-body additions arrived in Johannesburg fully decked out in SAA’s livery, reflecting the airline’s renewed ambition to align expansion with sustainable growth.

According to Professor John Lamola, interim CEO at SAA, this strategic fleet increase reinforces the carrier’s commitment to boosting both domestic and regional seat capacity. Such investments also underscore SAA’s broader objective of stabilizing ticket prices across its markets, an initiative warmly received by both leisure and business customers.

Currently, the flag carrier’s lineup comprises varied aircraft types, including wide-body A330 and A343 models that have proven essential in reintroducing intercontinental flights. After last year’s restoration of routes between Johannesburg and São Paulo and Perth, alongside Cape Town to São Paulo, the airline continues delivering long-haul options for African travelers seeking direct access to South America and Australia.

This promising growth occurs despite ongoing supply chain bottlenecks impacting the global aviation industry. Major delays in aircraft deliveries and the scarcity of used planes have created challenges for carriers worldwide. Yet, SAA has successfully navigated this tight market, positioning itself to welcome five more aircraft during the 2025 calendar year.

Alongside ramping up its fleet, the airline has amplified flight frequencies to major African destinations. As of 20 January 2025, SAA launches new services linking Johannesburg with Dar es Salaam and increases flights to Harare and Lusaka — now offering 12 trips weekly to each. Routes to Lagos and Accra rise from three to four weekly flights, while Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo is served five times per week. Additionally, SAA introduced flights to Lubumbashi, the DRC’s mining hub, in November 2024.

These schedule refinements and fleet upgrades position SAA as a key player in advancing Africa’s connectivity. By fostering direct links between economic centers and leisure destinations, SAA’s cargo and passenger operations open new possibilities for business expansion, tourism development, and more seamless travel across the continent and beyond. With its 20-aircraft milestone achieved, the airline appears ready to scale new heights in African aviation.