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.
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The tourism promotion agency for SA’s economic hub said the resumption of the route will see the national carrier operating three non-stop 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-19 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 both leisure and business travellers and promotes trade and cultural exchange between South Africa and Australia,” she said in a statement.
‘Significant’ move for the airline
SAA launched its first intercontinental route post the Covid-19 pandemic from Cape Town and Johannesburg to Brazil’s financial hub of São Paulo in October and November last year.
Read: SAA launching Cape Town and Johannesburg routes to Brazil
“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 and focus to ensure SAA grows international aviation into the city and Western Australia,” he said.
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“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 São Paulo via Johannesburg,” added Hanekom.
“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.”
More destinations in the future
Mentioning the various factors that contributed to the relaunch of the route, Hanekom said that 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”.
“For the route, SAA will operate an Airbus A340-300, with a total seat capacity of 253 [38 business class seats and 215 economy seats],” he added.
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According to the GTA, the Perth non-stop, overnight flights will depart OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. The return flights from Perth International Airport are scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
Meanwhile, Hanekom hinted at further significant developments from the airline.
“SAA is committed to growing the airline into a revered leader in the global aviation sector. Perth is but one indicator of this ambition and gives us confidence that our vision of expanding our footprint to over 20 destinations will be realised.”
