South African Airways (SAA), one of the longest-standing airlines on the African continent, is aiming to significantly expand its operations in West Africa with Ghana as its central hub.

The airline sees this move as an opportunity to improve connectivity between the sub-region and other parts of Africa, as well as establish links to Southern America.

Despite the excitement around this expansion, SAA has raised concerns about the bureaucratic obstacles that continue to impede the aviation industry in Africa.

The airline is urging governments to reduce airport charges and encourage collaboration within the industry in order to lower air travel costs and make intercontinental flights more accessible.

At a dinner with travel industry professionals, SAA’s CEO, Professor John Lamola, shared the airline’s post-restructuring recovery plan and vision for boosting connectivity across the continent.

Lamola stressed that high airport user fees and Africa’s reliance on imported aviation fuel significantly contribute to the high cost of air travel.

He pointed out that due to Africa’s limited refining capacity, aviation fuel is often imported at rates up to 30% higher than other regions.

In addition, protectionist policies, high taxes, and restrictive flight routes also increase operational costs for airlines, creating significant barriers to growth.

“Airlines and governments must work together to address the high cost of air travel in Africa.

Lowering airport fees and improving operational efficiencies will make flying more accessible, boosting tourism and intra-African trade,” Lamola said.

SAA has already seen success with its Accra route, which has become a critical link between Southern, West, and international markets.

Building on this success, the airline is planning to increase the frequency of flights between Accra and Johannesburg from three times a week to daily.

Additionally, the airline is exploring the possibility of launching an Accra-Cape Town route to further improve the customer experience.

Lamola also emphasized the importance of collaboration within the African aviation sector, citing statistics from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) showing that intra-Africa travel accounts for only about two percent of global air traffic.

He believes that fostering greater collaboration will help stimulate air travel across the continent, contributing to the growth of a sustainable aviation industry and fostering economic development.

Lamola emphasized the notable effect of the visa waiver agreement between Ghana and South Africa, which has led to a substantial increase in tourism between the two nations.

Following the introduction of the visa exemption in November 2023, the number of Ghanaian visitors to South Africa has risen by 149%.

“This initiative stimulated our people to travel, which also stimulated the airline market, commerce and tourism sectors benefited significantly.

So, it is a way to let our people know their continent very well,” Lamola explained.

SAA, with its 90-year legacy, has navigated financial difficulties in recent years, including undergoing a business rescue process.

The airline has since emerged leaner, with a more focused strategy that prioritizes efficiency and sustainable growth.

Since resuming operations, SAA has reinstated key domestic and regional flights, relaunched intercontinental services, and regained customer trust with its commitment to on-time performance, safety, and quality service.

“South African Airways is an airline with a rich, 90-year legacy.

We are one of the oldest and most recognizable airline brands on the continent.

Our journey, particularly in recent years, has been one of significant transformation.

We emerged from a challenging business rescue process leaner, more agile, and intensely focused on efficiency, stability, and sustainable growth,” Lamola said.

Looking ahead, SAA is determined to play a pivotal role in the revitalization of African aviation.

With Ghana positioned as the key hub for West Africa, the airline’s expanded presence is expected to strengthen economic ties, improve tourism opportunities, and enhance connectivity across the continent.

Lamola sees the airline’s future in Ghana as intertwined with the country’s broader aviation goals.

“Looking ahead, the future for SAA in Ghana involves strengthening this partnership.

We aim to deepen our collaboration with Ghanaian tourism authorities, our travel trade partners, and the business community to create synergistic growth.

Our future and Ghana’s aviation future are intertwined through this vital Accra route,” he concluded.