Perth, Australia – SAA’s revitalized focus: Expanded content signals promising prospects

Tuesday, January 9, 2024

South African Airways (SAA) is thrilled to declare the resumption of its flights to Perth, Australia, with the inaugural flight from Johannesburg to Perth set for April 28, 2024.

CEO of SAA, Professor John Lamola, expresses that the reintroduction of SAA’s operations to Perth aligns with the airline’s strategic objectives to elevate its operations to a profitable level. This is achieved by capitalizing on SAA’s distinctive capabilities as a national carrier equipped with wide-body aircraft, facilitating long-haul intercontinental air connectivity for South Africa.

The Perth route, reopening within six months of the successful launch of the Sao Paulo, Brazil route on October 31, 2023, marks the second interoceanic route. A Southern hemisphere travel package, connecting Perth to Sao Paulo through Johannesburg, is now a viable option.

As a proud member of the global Star Alliance network, SAA is pleased to contribute to enhancing seamless travel to and from Australia for customers of the 25 alliance co-member airlines.

CEO Lamola emphasizes the global interconnectivity potential of the route, highlighting Perth as a popular destination for South African and Australian travelers, with approximately 80% of the target market comprising visitors reconnecting with family and friends. The recommencement of the route aims to provide a direct and convenient passage for both leisure and business travelers, fostering trade and cultural exchange between South Africa and Australia.

Flights (SA 280) depart from OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg, three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays at 20:55, arriving at Perth International Airport the following day at 12:20. Return flights from Perth (SA 281) are scheduled three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, departing at 14:40 and arriving the following day at 19:35 in Johannesburg.

During the launch phase, SAA will operate an Airbus A340 – 300, boasting a total seat capacity of 253 (38 business class seats and 215 economy seats). The A340 – 300 is renowned for its spaciousness, comfort, reliability, and suitability for long-distance flights.

The launch of the Perth route presents another opportunity for SAA Voyager frequent flyers to earn and redeem air miles. Members earn one SAA Voyager mile for every R1.60 spent on air ticket purchases. As a Star Alliance member, Voyager members in Australia are eligible for the HSBC Star Alliance Credit Card, providing additional opportunities to earn Voyager miles and achieve Elite credit card status based on spending.

CEO Lamola concludes by expressing the commitment to elevate SAA into a respected leader in the global aviation sector. The Perth route serves as an indicator of this ambition, instilling confidence that the vision to expand the airline’s footprint to over 20 destinations this year will be realized.

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