19 February 2007
South African Airways (SAA) is to expand its international route network this year to include destinations in Europe, North and South America and other African countries.
The carrier is taking advantage of its membership with Star Alliance, which gives it access to more than 150 destinations in Europe and North America through other alliance members.
Star Alliance brings together 18 of the world's major airlines, giving travellers the choice to visit 841 destinations in 157 countries.
"The development of new routes is expected to grow SAA's international capacity by 8%. This proves that SAA is committed to growing its international routes," said Nomfanelo Mgwentshu, SAA's general manager for business development.
Through the alliance, SAA will also have access to 63 destinations in Europe, including 17 in Italy alone, through connecting flights from Munich in Germany.
SAA is set to fly to Chicago, the largest hub of fellow alliance member United Airlines, from May onwards. Through United, SAA users will be able to connect to 91 destinations throughout North America.
In July, new flights to Buenos Aires in Argentina will be launched, offering connecting flights to seven countries in South America, including Chile, Peru and Uruguay.
"SAA customers may also soon be able to fly to a third South American destination, Rio de Janeiro in Brazil," Mgwentshu said.
The country's flag carrier will also launch flights to Libreville in Gabon, giving travellers greater access to opportunities and tourist attractions on the African continent.
"We hope the new destinations will stimulate tourism not only in South Africa but in Africa as a whole," said Mgwentshu.
Source: BuaNews
