SAA relaunches direct route between Perth & SA

South African Airways (SAA) is marking a significant milestone with the relaunch of its direct route between Johannesburg and Perth. The airline's first flight is scheduled to depart from OR Tambo International Airport on the evening of Sunday, 28 April, and arrive at Perth Airport the following day. To discuss the significance of this relaunch for SAA, travelers, and businesses, CNBC Africa spoke with John Lamola, the interim CEO of South African Airways. Lamola highlighted the importance of this route as a symbol of SAA's recovery and growth strategy, as well as its role in promoting connectivity for the entire African continent. He emphasized that the launch of the Perth route is a momentous moment for SAA and the South African aviation industry, showcasing the airline's commitment to fostering trade and tourism between Africa and Australia. Lamola also noted the increasing demand for travel on this route, particularly among the South African immigrant community in Australia and business travelers between the two countries. He highlighted the positive impact of this route on both travelers and businesses, citing the strong traffic volume predictions that have justified the launch. As SAA continues to expand its route network and rebuild its operations, Lamola discussed the airline's long-term strategy, emphasizing the importance of financial sustainability and serving South Africa's national development goals. He highlighted the complexities of enabling ease of travel within the continent, pointing out the high costs and regulatory issues that still pose challenges to the aviation industry in Africa. Lamola called for greater investment in the airline industry to unlock the continent's potential for air travel and stimulate economic growth. Despite the challenges ahead, Lamola expressed optimism about SAA's future and its role in shaping the aviation landscape in Africa. The relaunch of the Perth route is not only a significant achievement for SAA but also a positive development for the broader African aviation industry. With growing demand for travel and a strategic focus on sustainability and connectivity, SAA is poised to play a key role in driving economic development and promoting regional integration in the years to come.