“THE launch of flights to Ndola is the first step in SAA’s big plans for Africa.”
This was the word from Theunis Potgieter, gm commercial at SAA at the launch of the airline’s operations to Ndola, Zambia.

The introduction of the route was aligned to the airline’s growth strategy, which was to support the national carrier’s goal to strengthen its African network and enhance business travel to feasible destinations, effectively nurturing economic growth on the African continent, Theunis said.

He continued that as a result of an increase in trade between South Africa and the rest of Africa, SAA was looking at expanding operations into the east and west of the continent.

The new Ndola route, because of its convenient air connection between SA and Zambia, would also serve to enhance intra-Africa connectivity, said Theunis.

The route will be serviced by an A319 aircraft, which accommodates 120 passengers in a two-class configuration – business and economy. Flights will operate three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.

The airline has said it will work closely with SA Airlink to complement early-morning departures from Johannesburg, giving customers increased travel options.

Meanwhile, SAA will launch new routes to Bujumbura, Burundi; Kigali, Rwanda; and Cotonou, Benin from October 31.