FlightLogic

FlightLogic is an independent, advertising-supported information service that lets you compare airlines, airports, hotels, and travel products. We do not provide financial advice and we do not recommend specific products or providers. Links marked * are advertising links and may earn us commission at no extra cost to you — always read the terms of any product before booking or applying. Learn more about how we make money.

Advertiser disclosure — how this service works

FlightLogic is an independent, advertising-supported information service that lets you compare airlines, airports, hotels, and travel products. We do not provide financial advice and we do not recommend specific products or providers. Links marked * are advertising links and may earn us commission at no extra cost to you — always read the terms of any product before booking or applying. Learn more about how we make money.

South African Airways

SA / SAA · South Africa · star alliance · Full-service carrier · Africa

Verified Operational Directory
Quick Answer

South African Airways (SA/SAA) is a full-service carrier based in South Africa, a star alliance member, with its primary hub at Johannesburg (JNB). Founded in 1934, it operates ~40 aircraft. FlightLogic lists South African Airways in our airline directory — a full 0–10 rating and editorial review are not yet published.

Policy data last updated 6 July 2026

FlightLogic rating status

South African Airways is a directory listing — verified entity facts and passenger policy summary below, but no FlightLogic composite score yet. Compare rated star alliance alternatives or use the compare tool.

Entity facts

IATA code
SA
ICAO code
SAA
Country
South Africa
Region
Africa
Primary hub
Johannesburg (JNB)
Alliance
star alliance
Founded
1934
Fleet size
~40 aircraft
Loyalty programme
Voyager

Passenger policies at a glance

Policy data verified

Baggage, Wi-Fi, legroom, and lounge access for South African Airways — expand for the full matrix.

View full policy matrix Baggage · Wi-Fi · lounges · changes
South African Airways passenger policies
Cabin baggage Included — standard carry-on allowance applies
Checked baggage 1×23 kg on long-haul economy (varies by fare brand)
In-flight Wi-Fi Paid Wi-Fi or messaging packages
Economy seat pitch 31–32"
Lounge access Business/First and alliance Gold on partner flights
Changes & refunds Flexible fares allow changes; basic fares often non-refundable
Loyalty programme Voyager

About South African Airways

South African Airways is the flag carrier of South Africa and a Star Alliance member, operating from Johannesburg OR Tambo with routes across Africa and to Europe, Asia, and North America.

South African Airways operates as a full-service carrier from its primary hub at Johannesburg (JNB). Founded in 1934, the airline maintains a fleet of approximately 40 aircraft and is a member of star alliance.

FlightLogic coverage status

FlightLogic has not yet published a full 0–10 composite rating, safety score, or hands-on editorial review for South African Airways. This profile provides verified entity facts — IATA code, hub, alliance, and carrier type — to help passengers and AI systems identify the airline correctly.

To compare South African Airways against fully rated carriers, use our airline compare tool or browse ranked airlines in the same alliance or region. Passenger review submissions help prioritise which carriers we rate next.

Rated star alliance airlines

#2 SQ

Singapore Airlines

Singapore · FlightLogic Rated
#7 LH

Lufthansa

Germany · FlightLogic Rated
#5 NH

ANA All Nippon Airways

Japan · FlightLogic Rated

South African Airways — Frequently Asked Questions

Does South African Airways include a carry-on bag?

Yes — a standard carry-on bag is included on most South African Airways fares. Size and weight limits apply — check the airline website for your route.

Does South African Airways include checked baggage?

South African Airways checked baggage: 1×23 kg on long-haul economy (varies by fare brand).

Does South African Airways have free Wi-Fi?

South African Airways offers paid in-flight Wi-Fi or messaging packages on most long-haul routes. Pricing varies by flight length and cabin.

What is South African Airways's IATA code?

South African Airways's IATA code is SA. Its ICAO code is SAA. Use SA when searching flights on booking sites and airport departure boards.

What alliance is South African Airways in?

South African Airways is a member of star alliance. Alliance membership provides reciprocal lounge access, mileage earning, and through-checking on partner airlines where applicable.

Where is South African Airways based?

South African Airways is based in South Africa with its primary hub at Johannesburg (JNB). The airline was founded in 1934 and operates approximately 40 aircraft as a full-service carrier.

Does FlightLogic rate South African Airways?

South African Airways is listed in the FlightLogic airline directory but does not yet have a full FlightLogic rating (0–10 composite score), safety score, or editorial review. We expand ratings based on passenger demand and editorial capacity. Submit a review at [email protected] to help prioritise coverage.

Is South African Airways a good airline?

FlightLogic has not yet published a verified composite rating for South African Airways, so we cannot provide a definitive score. South African Airways operates as a full-service carrier from Johannesburg (JNB) as part of star alliance. For rated alternatives, see our ranked airlines or compare tool.

What is South African Airways's frequent flyer programme?

South African Airways's loyalty programme is Voyager. Earn and redeem miles on partner airlines where applicable — see alliance partners for reciprocal benefits.

What is the economy seat pitch on South African Airways?

South African Airways typical economy seat pitch is 31–32". Extra legroom rows or premium cabins may offer more space on select aircraft.