Strategic Codeshare Agreement Between THY and South African Airways: Begins on 1 March 2026
Turkish Airlines (THY) and South African Airways (SAA) have signed an important partnership that will strengthen air traffic between the two countries and enhance global connectivity. The codeshare agreement, which will take effect on 1 March 2026, will offer passengers a broader flight network both between Türkiye and Africa and on Europe–Africa connections.
The Two Airlines Will Codeshare on Several Strategic Routes
Under the agreement, South African Airways will be able to sell tickets under the Turkish Airlines code on the following routes:
Johannesburg – Cape Town, Johannesburg – Durban, Johannesburg – Port Elizabeth, Johannesburg – Windhoek, Johannesburg – Harare, Johannesburg – Victoria Falls, Johannesburg – Mauritius
Turkish Airlines, on the other hand, will be able to sell tickets under the South African Airways code on the following routes:
Istanbul – Johannesburg, Istanbul – Cape Town, Istanbul – Durban, Istanbul – Frankfurt, Istanbul – Paris, Istanbul – London
“It Will Contribute to Cultural and Tourism Ties”
Speaking at the signing ceremony held in Geneva, Ahmet Bolat, Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee of Turkish Airlines, highlighted the multifaceted benefits of the partnership:
“We believe that this cooperation will not only remain within the commercial field but will also provide significant gains to the deep-rooted culture and tourism relations between our countries.”
“A Step Strengthening the Africa–Türkiye Connection”
South African Airways CEO John Lamola emphasised the strategic importance of the agreement with Turkish Airlines:
“Turkish Airlines is a respected global aviation company, and this partnership reflects our shared commitment to strengthening the connection between Africa and Türkiye. This cooperation plays an important role in supporting tourism, trade, and sustainable economic development.”
The codeshare agreement between THY and SAA opens the door to a new era that will strengthen Türkiye’s presence in the African aviation market while enhancing the economic and tourism interaction between the two countries.
