SAA and CemAir Strike Game-Changing Domestic Codeshare Deal
South African Airways (SAA) and CemAir have signed a landmark domestic codeshare agreement aimed at transforming air travel within South Africa by improving connectivity between major cities and regional destinations.
The partnership, which is exclusively domestic, marks a departure from SAA’s traditional focus on regional and international codeshare arrangements. Under the agreement, both airlines will place their codes on selected flights operated by the other, allowing passengers to book seamless journeys through official websites, mobile applications and authorised travel agents.
Travellers will benefit from single-ticket itineraries, smooth connections and through-checked baggage, supported by harmonised service standards. The collaboration is designed to make air travel more convenient and accessible, particularly to destinations not previously served by SAA’s network.
CemAir, a privately owned South African airline operating since 2005, serves a range of major and regional destinations including Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, George, East London, Gqeberha, Margate, Kimberley, Hoedspruit and Mala Mala. Its fleet of regional jets and turboprop aircraft complements SAA’s operations, expanding reach to both business and leisure markets.
Commenting on the agreement, SAA Group Chief Executive Officer Professor John Lamola described the partnership as a major boost for domestic aviation. He said the collaboration would connect key urban centres with regional and leisure destinations previously beyond SAA’s reach, while offering customers greater flexibility, convenience and choice, and supporting tourism and economic growth.
CemAir Chief Executive Officer Mr Miles van der Molen welcomed the agreement, saying it reflected a shared vision to enhance access, flexibility and reliability for travellers. He noted that combining the strengths of both airlines would help create a stronger and more connected domestic network.
Ticket sales for codeshare flights will open on 26 January 2026. Customers will be able to book through SAA and CemAir’s official channels, including their websites, mobile applications and travel agents.
