SAA and CemAir Launch Codeshare to Expand Domestic Access and Boost Leisure Connectivity
The South African aviation landscape is set for a major boost as South African Airways (SAA) and CemAir (Pty) Ltd unveil a landmark domestic codeshare agreement. This collaboration strategically unites SAA’s established network of trunk routes with CemAir’s expertise in connecting regional and leisure destinations, creating a seamless new gateway for business and leisure travelers across South Africa.
The codeshare, which takes effect with ticket sales opening on 26 January 2026, promises to deliver enhanced flexibility, convenience, and choice for customers. For African tourism professionals, this partnership marks a significant development: it creates a single, integrated booking experience that links major urban centres with sought-after holiday spots and remote reserves. Travelers can now book journeys from SAA’s main hubs directly to destinations like Margate, Hoedspruit, and Mala Mala Game Reserve in a single transaction, reducing hassle and improving overall accessibility for both domestic and international visitors.
SAA’s robust trunk route network provides the backbone of South Africa’s air transport, serving major cities and business corridors. By overlaying CemAir’s reach into regional gems—including gateway airports for wildlife tourism and leisure travel—the codeshare taps into growing demand for greater connectivity to South Africa’s diverse tourism offerings. This partnership not only benefits end customers but also strengthens the country’s reputation as a destination with world-class infrastructure and easy access to both urban and wilderness experiences.
For the travel trade, the codeshare opens up new selling opportunities and the chance to deliver more complex itineraries with confidence. Bookings for these integrated flights will be available through SAA and CemAir’s official channels, including flysaa.com, mobile apps, and established agency networks. This move is expected to streamline distribution, improve sales processes, and reduce the operational challenges associated with multi-carrier journeys.
The impact is expected to go beyond convenience. By connecting more cities and leisure destinations, the collaboration is set to support tourism recovery and drive economic growth throughout South Africa. Regional communities, game reserves, and secondary cities stand to benefit from increased visitor numbers, while business travelers can expect better access and optimized route options. The partnership is also a timely response to shifting traveler expectations in the post-pandemic era, where flexibility and easy connections are key decision drivers.
This codeshare agreement signals a broader trend in African aviation: the value of partnerships in extending reach and building resilience. As airlines across the continent seek innovative ways to adapt to evolving market conditions, strategic alliances such as this become central to sustaining competitiveness and unlocking new growth.
For Africa’s tourism industry professionals, this collaboration is an invitation to rethink product design and itinerary planning—leveraging the combined strengths of SAA and CemAir to deliver richer, more accessible experiences to both local and international clients. With ticket sales set to begin shortly, the stage is set for a new era of domestic tourism connectivity in South Africa.
