South African Airlines has recently had a facelift to bring in its new logo and tail designs, looking more sunny and South African. They also serve a variety of markets, of which I will try and address most of here.
First of all, there is the SA Airlink domestic market. This airline has only recently joined the South African fleet - a few years ago it was an independant company. But South African is taking care of it, and keeping it young, and the service is as good as ever if not better!
SA Airlink operates a fleet mainly of prop/ regional jet, with their main hub at Johannesburg International (see seperate opinion). But don't be put off, as their props are the comfortable and roomy Bombardier QSeries.
The company flies serving routes between all the South African airports. The staff are very friendly, and always willing to help you and talk to you. And the meals aren't bad either. But beware - there is no food on some of their shortest flights.
There is no smoking on internal flights, but I personally would see that as an advantage. Check-in is usually easy, and the airline is renowned for their punctuality and efficiency.
Then there's the international airline - South African Airways. Here, you will find firendly service in the comfortable interiors of their modern fleet, with the latest films to select from in Economy. Plus there's friendly staff and some culinary delights!
There's a lot to do in South Africa. You may want to visit Cape Town's Robben Island (see seperate opinion). But, you need to get there somehow, and SAA does that for you, flying direct from the UK to Cape Town and J'B.
They have a well-organised schedule, bringing in many night-flights, giving you the chance to sleep. But you can't really do that because the selection of IFE is so amazing you will never tire. And the service you get is great, too.
There is one problem which happens to all airlines leaving Heathrow. It's terminals are so congested. I'm not blaming SAA for this but the thing is LHR is so congested check-in takes hours... literally.
And finally, there's the SA Alliance Air, also a new purchase, operating two 747s between London and Johannesburg. It's pretty much like SAA, except it only serves two destinations.
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
NH Hotels, the hotel chain leader in Europe, with more than 300 hotels in 20 countries in Europe, Latin America and Africa. Enter into our web site and find the best available tariff at all times
Record Rent a Car is present in the main spanish airports and has a very wide fleet. We offer: exceptional discounts, free additional drivers,
unlimited mileage... subscribe to our Club Record and take advantage of special offers.
Advantages: Competitive cheap international flights. Good safety record. Disadvantages: Seats are hellish in economy. Service is a russian roulette gamble from good to ghastly.
Advantages: slightly cheaper than BA (but only by £40 and this was an expensive ticket) Disadvantages: poor customer service, small seats, ancient plane with poor entertainment and food, delays...
May 4th, 2001
very helpful by (90%):
helpful by (10%):
