South African Airways

South African Airways (SAA) is the national carrier of South Africa, founded in 1934. Operating under the IATA code SA and ICAO code SAA with the callsign SPRINGBOK, the airline has long served as a flagship ambassador for South African aviation, connecting domestic, regional African, and intercontinental routes. The airline faced severe financial difficulties in the late 2010s and entered business rescue proceedings in December 2019, suspending most operations. Following a restructuring process supported by a private consortium and the South African government, SAA relaunched operations in September 2021 with a significantly reduced fleet and network. Post-restructuring, SAA has been rebuilding its route network and fleet, focusing on key African routes and select long-haul destinations. The airline is headquartered in Johannesburg and uses OR Tambo International Airport as its primary hub.