South African Airways (SAA) celebrated the inaugural flight of its new international route from Johannesburg to Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), on November 4, 2024. The A320 aircraft departed OR Tambo International Airport at 10:50 a.m., landing safely at Luano International Airport just over three hours later. This direct route, operating five times weekly, is aimed at both business travellers and connecting passengers, strengthening ties between South Africa and the DRC, two of Africa’s largest economies.
A Boost for Trade and Industry
SAA’s interim CEO, Professor John Lamola, emphasized the route’s strategic importance in connecting Africa’s key economic and mining hubs. “As an enabler of trade and commerce in Africa, SAA connects two of Africa’s most influential economies and mining centres,” Lamola stated. This move is expected to deepen collaboration, create new business opportunities, and contribute to economic growth. SAA noted that the flight schedule will complement ground transfers to essential business and industrial centers, including mining sites in the DRC and neighboring Zambia.
Strengthening Bilateral Trade Relations
The trade relationship between South Africa and the DRC has grown significantly in recent years. In 2022, South African exports to the DRC, which included refined petroleum and mining machinery, reached R26.6 billion. Meanwhile, the DRC’s exports to South Africa consist primarily of refined copper, precious metal scraps, raw zinc, and other minerals. SAA anticipates that direct air connectivity will enhance this partnership, benefiting both nations’ economies and promoting trade across Africa.
Expanding SAA’s Route Network
As part of its revival strategy, SAA has ramped up flight frequencies to key African destinations. Starting in November 2024, SAA will increase flights to Harare, Lusaka, Lagos, and Accra, with additional flights to Mauritius in December and Perth in January 2025. Domestically, SAA will expand flights to Gqeberha, meeting growing demand from both business and leisure travelers.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy recently announced that SAA is now debt-free and no longer relies on government funding. However, the airline is seeking equity investment to restore its financial strength and realize its vision of becoming a leading African carrier once again. Lamola highlighted the airline’s commitment to economic growth, saying, “Air travel plays a key role in building our tourism and trade links across Africa.”
With a renewed focus on connecting Africa, SAA’s expansion strategy aims to foster economic integration and support the continent’s economic development.
