SAA set to resume flights Down Under
South African Airways (SAA) is set to resume direct flights between Johannesburg and Perth, Australia’s fourth-largest city, from 28 April.
Hailing the move ahead of the Meetings Africa 2024 conferencing and exhibitions industry event, which kicked off at the Sandton Convention Centre on Tuesday, the Gauteng Tourism Authority (GTA) said there has been a notable demand for seat bookings, especially in economy class.
The tourism promotion agency for SA’s economic hub said the resumption of the route will see the national carrier operating three nonstop return flights a week from the end of April.
This follows a three-year hiatus in SAA operating the route in the wake of the Covid fallout and its own financial woes.
“We are really excited that these flights will recommence,” said GTA CEO Sthembiso Dlamini.
“The route provides an easier and direct passage for leisure and business travellers and promotes trade and cultural exchange between South Africa and Australia.”
SAA launched its first intercontinental route post the Covid pandemic from Cape Town and Johannesburg to Brazil’s financial hub of Sao Paulo in October and November last year.
“The reopening of the Johannesburg to Perth direct route is about connecting two cities and bridging diverse cultures and experiences,” said the GTA.
“It gives Australian travellers easier access to the rich tapestry of experiences that Gauteng offers – from its vibrant urban lifestyle to its stunning natural landscapes. It is an invitation to explore the #GPLifestyle – a unique blend of adventure, culture, and gastronomy that the province is renowned for.”
Speaking to Moneyweb, SAA chair Derek Hanekom said the relaunch of the Perth route is significant for the national airline.
“The return of SAA to Perth is a testament to the airline’s resilient efforts to ensure SAA grows international aviation into the city and Western Australia,” he said.
“SAA will return to Perth after three years following the impacts of the pandemic and provides a southern hemisphere travel package that goes from Perth to Sao Paulo via Johannesburg.
“The SAA team considered both the Australian and South African markets, which are expected to reach the pre-Covid levels by 2025, and we anticipate that the market will potentially accelerate the recovery levels.”
Hanekom said the airline considered potential connections, competition, fleet, tourism, trade, schedule and cargo opportunities before deciding to operate the route, which would be “delivering 78 936 seats to the Perth market”.