South African Airways (SAA) has taken proactive steps to maintain its full operational schedule while several wide-body aircraft undergo planned heavy maintenance from 15 September 2025 until the end of November 2025.
To support this, an A330-300 Airbus has been leased from Hi Fly, configured in line with our fleet, ensuring passengers continue to enjoy reliable connectivity across our network.
Hi Fly is the largest Airbus Widebody aircraft wet lease specialist in the world, EASA and IOSA certified, and FAA approved, with AOCs in Portugal and Malta, and licensed to operate globally.
Hi Fly will operate select SAA flights using an aircraft configured similarly to our widebody fleet, performing intercontinental flights with 249 passenger seats. The aircraft will be used on routes connecting Johannesburg with Lagos, Accra, and São Paulo.
SAA Group Chief Executive, Prof. John Lamola, explained, “This temporary arrangement that is normal in the airline industry is similar to our arrangement with Sun Express. It represents an innovative solution that enables South African Airways to maintain its operational schedule and revenue targets while upholding our unwavering commitment to reliability, connectivity, and safety.”
Passenger Experience and Expectations
We appreciate the importance of a consistent and premium travel experience that our customers are accustomed to. While the Hi Fly-operated aircraft mirrors our A330 layout, there are some differences in the cabin that passengers should be aware of:
• In-flight Entertainment: Entertainment will be available via streaming. Passengers are encouraged to bring their own device, headset, and power cord (BYOD).
• Cabin Crew: For the first two months, flights will be staffed by Hi Fly crew, whilst the SAA crew completes regulatory training to support service delivery and ensure brand continuity.
Network Growth and Increased Connectivity
The leasing of this additional aircraft enables South African Airways (SAA) to strengthen and expand its presence across key regional and international routes. Once the A330 returns from maintenance, SAA will have access to one additional aircraft for the remainder of the lease term. This will allow the airline to increase flight frequencies on the following routes:
• Johannesburg – São Paulo (GRU): from 2 to 4 weekly flights
• Johannesburg – Lagos (LOS): from 4 to 6 weekly flights
• Johannesburg – Accra (ACC): from 4 to 6 weekly flights
These enhancements reflect SAA’s ongoing commitment to growing our network and connecting Africa to the world.
We thank our customers for their continued support and look forward to welcoming them on board.
Richard Kyereh
Richard Kyereh is an aerospace and aviation consultant with over 15 years of experience advising airlines, regulators, and investment firms across four continents.
