South Africa has one of the most developed aviation sectors in Africa, serving as a vital gateway between the continent and the rest of the world. With Johannesburg’s O. R. Tambo International Airport standing as the busiest hub in Africa, South African airlines provide both international long-haul connections and domestic flights linking major cities and regional destinations. The list of airlines in South Africa includes full-service international carriers, domestic airlines, low-cost operators, regional airlines, and specialized cargo carriers.
Major International Airlines in South Africa
South African Airways (SAA) – The national flag carrier and one of Africa’s most recognized airlines. It offers international flights to Europe, North America, Asia, and other parts of Africa, operating primarily from Johannesburg’s O. R. Tambo International Airport.
Comair (British Airways franchise, historical) – While Comair operated domestic and regional flights under the British Airways brand, it played a historic role in South African aviation before ceasing operations in recent years.
Airlink – One of the fastest-growing independent airlines in Southern Africa, Airlink provides international services across neighboring African countries, including Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Domestic Airlines in South Africa
South Africa has a competitive domestic market with airlines linking Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth, and other cities:
- South African Airways – Besides international routes, SAA also offers domestic connections.
- FlySafair – A popular low-cost carrier specializing in affordable domestic travel between major cities.
- Lift Airline – A newer airline that operates key domestic routes such as Johannesburg–Cape Town.
- CemAir – Provides domestic services as well as connections to smaller towns and regional destinations.
Low-Cost Airlines in South Africa
Low-cost airlines are a major part of South Africa’s aviation industry, making air travel more accessible:
- FlySafair – The most successful low-cost carrier, known for punctuality and affordability.
- Lift Airline – Competes in the budget-friendly domestic travel market.
- Mango Airlines (historical) – Once a government-owned low-cost airline, Mango played a significant role before suspending operations.
Regional Airlines in South Africa
South Africa’s regional carriers provide essential connections within Southern Africa:
- Airlink – Offers the widest regional network, linking South Africa with more than 40 destinations in neighboring countries.
- CemAir – Also serves some regional routes to Southern African nations.
Cargo Airlines in South Africa
Cargo transport is critical for trade and industry in South Africa:
- South African Airways Cargo – The cargo division of SAA, specializing in freight transport worldwide.
- CemAir Cargo – Provides cargo alongside its passenger services.
- SAFAIR Cargo (part of FlySafair’s operations) – Supports logistics and freight services within South Africa.
List of Airlines in South Africa by Category and Main Airports
| Airline Name | Category | Main Airport / Hub |
|---|---|---|
| South African Airways (SAA) | International/Domestic | O. R. Tambo International (JNB) |
| Airlink | Regional/International | O. R. Tambo International (JNB) |
| FlySafair | Low-Cost/Domestic | O. R. Tambo International (JNB), Cape Town (CPT) |
| Lift Airline | Low-Cost/Domestic | O. R. Tambo International (JNB) |
| CemAir | Domestic/Regional | O. R. Tambo International (JNB), Cape Town (CPT) |
| South African Airways Cargo | Cargo | O. R. Tambo International (JNB) |
| SAFAIR Cargo | Cargo | O. R. Tambo International (JNB) |
| CemAir Cargo | Cargo | O. R. Tambo International (JNB) |
| Mango Airlines (suspended) | Low-Cost/Domestic | O. R. Tambo International (JNB) |
| Comair (ceased operations) | Domestic/Regional | O. R. Tambo International (JNB) |
Importance of South African Airlines in Global Aviation
The list of airlines in South Africa highlights the country’s role as a major African aviation hub. With a mix of national, private, and low-cost carriers, the sector ensures reliable connections across Africa and beyond. Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban airports act as strong gateways for business, tourism, and trade.
SEE ALSO: International Airports in South Africa and Their Location
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the national airline of South Africa?
The national airline is South African Airways (SAA).
2. Which is the largest airline in South Africa?
South African Airways is the largest, offering both international and domestic services.
3. What is the best low-cost airline in South Africa?
FlySafair is considered the best low-cost airline, known for reliability and affordability.
4. Does South Africa have new airlines?
Yes, Lift Airline is a relatively new carrier operating domestic routes.
5. Which airline serves the most regional destinations in Southern Africa?
Airlink operates the widest regional network across neighboring African countries.
6. Does South Africa still have Mango Airlines?
No, Mango Airlines has suspended operations.
7. What are the main hub airports for South African airlines?
Johannesburg O. R. Tambo (JNB), Cape Town International (CPT), and Durban King Shaka (DUR) are the major hubs.
8. Are there cargo-only airlines in South Africa?
Yes, SAA Cargo, SAFAIR Cargo, and CemAir Cargo are key cargo operators.
9. Which airlines connect Cape Town to other cities?
SAA, FlySafair, Lift Airline, and CemAir connect Cape Town to major destinations.
10. Are South African airlines part of global alliances?
Yes, South African Airways is a member of Star Alliance.
11. Which airline is best for business travel in South Africa?
Airlink and SAA are preferred for business travelers due to their connectivity and premium services.
12. Why is South Africa important in African aviation?
Because Johannesburg and Cape Town serve as major hubs linking Africa to Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
DISCOVER ALSO: Major Cities in South Africa and Other Notable Urban Centers
Conclusion
South Africa’s aviation industry reflects both tradition and innovation, with South African Airways leading as the flag carrier, FlySafair and Lift Airline making domestic flights affordable, and Airlink strengthening regional connectivity. With its well-developed airports and strategic location, South Africa continues to play a vital role in linking Africa to the rest of the world.