Under the arrangement, both airlines will place their respective codes on selected flights operated by the other. This will allow passengers to book integrated itineraries through official airline websites, mobile applications and authorised travel agents. The partnership includes single-ticket itineraries, coordinated connections and baggage through-check, supported by aligned service standards.

 

Strengthening domestic connectivity

Unlike SAA’s existing codeshare agreements, which are primarily regional or international in scope, this collaboration is confined to domestic services. The objective is to extend SAA’s reach into niche leisure and business destinations while making use of CemAir’s established regional network.

 

CemAir has been operating scheduled services since 2005 and currently serves destinations including Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, George, East London, Gqeberha, Margate, Kimberley, Hoedspruit and Mala Mala. The airline operates a fleet of regional jets and turboprops, supporting both business and leisure travel across the country.

 

Executive perspectives

Professor John Lamola, Group Chief Executive Officer of South African Airways, described the agreement as a significant development for domestic travel. He noted that the partnership focuses on connecting major urban centres with regional and leisure destinations that were previously outside SAA’s network, offering customers increased flexibility and choice while supporting tourism and broader economic activity.

 

CemAir Chief Executive Officer Miles van der Molen welcomed the collaboration, stating that it reflects a shared intention to improve access, flexibility and reliability for travellers. He added that combining the strengths of both airlines contributes to a more connected domestic air transport network.

 

Customer benefits and availability

The codeshare partnership is expected to deliver several benefits for travellers, including expanded access to regional destinations, simplified booking through integrated systems, and smoother connections with baggage transfers handled under a single ticket.

 

Ticket sales for codeshare flights will open on 26 January 2026. Customers will be able to book through the official channels of both airlines, including websites, mobile applications and travel agents.