Turkish Airlines, SAA partner to enhance global travel

Turkish Airlines and South African Airways have signed a codeshare agreement to expand travel options for passengers across Africa, Türkiye, and other key global markets. The Chairman of Turkish Airlines, Ahmet Bolat, and SAA’s Chief Executive Officer, John Lamola, formalised the deal, which becomes effective on 1 March 2026, in Geneva.

Industry analysts have described the agreement as a pivotal move that expands the network reach for both airlines and deepens commercial cooperation between South Africa and Türkiye.

The new partnership confirms that Turkish Airlines will place its “TK’’ code on SAA-operated flights across major African gateways. These routes include Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth, Windhoek, Harare, Victoria Falls and Mauritius.

In a reciprocal arrangement, SAA will place its ‘SA’ code on selected Turkish Airlines flights from Istanbul to Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. The agreement also allows SAA to connect to long-haul Turkish Airlines connections to Frankfurt, Paris and London.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Chairman of Turkish Airlines Bolat emphasised the strategic importance of the deal for the airline’s long-term expansion plans in Africa.

“Our codeshare agreement with South African Airways is a meaningful step in further strengthening our presence in the African market and deepening the cooperation between Türkiye and South Africa,” he said.

He also noted Turkish Airlines’ position on the continent, stating, “As the largest non-African airline operating in Africa, we attach great importance to sustainable partnerships that enhance connectivity and cultivate long-term value for our guests.”

On his part, SAA Chief Executive Lamola described the partnership as a strong statement of confidence in the future of African aviation and its role in global travel.

“South African Airways welcomes this codeshare partnership as a strategic step in expanding safe, reliable, and competitive air services for our customers,” Lamola stated.

He stressed the wider benefits of the collaboration. “Turkish Airlines is a respected global carrier, and this collaboration reflects our shared commitment to strengthening connectivity between Africa and Türkiye. Partnerships of this nature play an important role in supporting tourism, trade, and sustainable economic development,” he added.

The codeshare agreement comes as the SAA rebuilds its capacity and expands its regional and international presence after years of restructuring.

Both carriers noted that the partnership will provide smoother connections, increased seat availability and greater choice for travellers, while strengthening commercial and tourism ties between Africa and Türkiye.