• Flights

South African Airways Appoints Professor John M. Lamola as Group CEO to Drive Future Growth South African Airways Appoints Professor John M. Lamola as Group CEO to Drive Future Growth

South African Airways (SAA) has announced the appointment of Professor John M. Lamola as its new Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO), following approval by Minister of Transport, Ms. Barbara Creecy. This appointment is seen as a pivotal moment for the airline, as Professor Lamola is poised to lead SAA into a new era of financial stability and operational growth.

Having served as SAA’s interim CEO since May 2022, Professor Lamola is no stranger to the challenges and opportunities facing the national carrier. His leadership during this period has already delivered remarkable progress, including the airline’s return to profitability after years of turbulence. His deep understanding of SAA’s history and his active role in shaping its future make him uniquely suited to guide the airline on its ambitious path forward.

A Track Record of Turnaround Success

Under Professor Lamola’s interim leadership, SAA achieved a net profit of R252 million in the 2022/23 financial year, marking its first profitable year since 2012. This was accompanied by an impressive revenue increase to R5.7 billion, up from R2 billion in 2021/22. During his tenure, the airline significantly expanded its reach, growing from just six destinations in 2021 to 16 by January 2025, including regional and global routes. Additionally, SAA bolstered its fleet from six to 20 aircraft, including the addition of two Airbus A330s, while its workforce grew from 800 employees in 2021 to approximately 2,000 employees by November 2024.

SAA Board Interim Chairperson, Mr. Derek Hanekom, expressed confidence in Professor Lamola’s leadership, stating, “The SAA Board is delighted to appoint a solid and dedicated leader well versed in SAA’s fortunes and eager to continue overseeing its take-off into better skies. We wish Professor Lamola and SAA a safe flight into an even brighter future.”

Driving Economic Growth and Job Creation

SAA’s resurgence under Professor Lamola’s leadership has had a profound impact on South Africa’s economy. A recent study commissioned by SAA from Oxford Economics Africa revealed that the airline’s gross value add (GVA) to South Africa’s GDP in the 2023/24 financial year is R9.1 billion. This figure is projected to rise to R32.6 billion by 2029/30, showcasing SAA’s significant role in driving economic growth.

Additionally, SAA is proving to be a powerful job creator. According to the study, the airline’s activities, including its role in facilitating international trade and bringing tourists to South Africa, supported 25,200 jobs in 2023/24. This number is expected to soar to 86,700 jobs by 2029/30, further solidifying SAA’s importance as an economic catalyst. The report also highlights the government revenue generated by SAA, which is anticipated to grow from R1.1 billion in 2023/24 to R4.4 billion by 2029/30.

Exceptional Leadership and Expertise

Professor Lamola brings a wealth of experience to his role as Group CEO. His aviation expertise includes serving as CEO of Denel Aviation from 1996 to 2001 and as a Board Member of the Airports Company South Africa from 2012 to 2017. Beyond aviation, he has managed a private equity investment portfolio with holdings in aviation and internet technologies, showcasing his ability to navigate complex industries and drive growth.

Academically, Professor Lamola holds a PhD in philosophy and religious studies from Edinburgh University in Scotland and an MBA from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida, USA, equipping him with a unique blend of analytical and managerial skills essential for steering SAA’s ongoing transformation.

A Vision for a Globally Competitive SAA

As SAA continues to rebuild its reputation as a leading airline, Professor Lamola’s appointment aligns with the Board’s vision of creating a commercially viable and globally competitive carrier. The improvements in financial discipline and operational efficiency under his leadership have already set the foundation for long-term success. “Professor Lamola can now continue growing SAA with confidence, knowing that he has the full support of the SAA Board and its shareholders,” said Hanekom.

For African travel professionals, SAA’s growth offers exciting opportunities to expand partnerships and enhance connectivity across the region and beyond. With its strengthened fleet, growing route network, and commitment to sustainable profitability, SAA is positioning itself as a key player in continental and global aviation.

As SAA’s journey continues, Professor Lamola’s leadership promises to deliver stability, innovation, and prosperity, ensuring that the airline remains a cornerstone of South Africa’s aviation industry and a valuable contributor to the country’s economic growth.