South African Airways (SAA) is determined to reclaim its position as Africa's leading network carrier, according to Chief Executive Officer Prof. John Lamola. During a dinner in Lagos with top travel and cargo partners, including Wakanow, Quantum Travels, American Express, Touchdown Travels, and Business Travel Management, Lamola outlined the airline's strategic plan for rebuilding and repositioning itself as a global brand.

“SAA has grown from being a restart. We are repositioning and rebuilding the airline to survive on its own together with our strategic partners,” Lamola stated. The airline's five-year corporate plan focuses on fleet renewal and modernization, as well as enhancing customer experience with an emphasis on African uniqueness. The ambitious goal is to expand the fleet to 50 aircraft within the next three years, building upon the current fleet of 20.

Lamola expressed gratitude to the travel and cargo agents for their support. He highlighted the consolidation of routes with increased frequencies, emphasizing the strategic importance of Lagos within the network. By March 2026, SAA aims to operate daily flights to Lagos. Additionally, the airline plans to connect West Africa with Cape Town to meet market demand.

“The future going forward is one of cooperation and holding hands together,” Lamola added, underscoring the importance of partnerships.

During a feedback session, travel agents shared positive experiences of working with SAA for over 20 years. Femi Adefope, Managing Director of Skylogistics, acknowledged the airline's long-standing vision for the Nigerian market, stating, “The potential SAA saw in the Nigerian market many years ago still exists today... I am a diehard supporter of SAA, and we will give you the support that I require.”

Yinka Folami, President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), welcomed the CEO and commended SAA's strong performance in the last financial year. “On behalf of NANTA we want to say in all area of our industry concerns; SAA does not fault any,” Folami noted.