TAAG Angola Airlines and South African Airways (SAA) have launched a new strategic codeshare agreement designed to strengthen regional and international air connectivity, marking a significant development for aviation in Southern Africa. The partnership, which became effective as ticket sales opened and flights commenced, aims to provide seamless travel options for passengers while expanding the reach of both airlines across Africa, Europe, and South America.
Under the agreement, SAA will place its flight code on TAAG-operated routes connecting Johannesburg and Cape Town to Luanda, Angola, in addition to long-haul services from Luanda to Lisbon, Portugal, and São Paulo, Brazil. In exchange, TAAG will gain access to several key destinations in SAA’s regional network, including Durban, Gqeberha, Cape Town, Harare, and Lusaka. The system integration completed by both airlines ensures an efficient rollout, enabling customers to enjoy coordinated services such as integrated check-in, smoother baggage transfers, and the convenience of purchasing a single ticket in their local currency.
According to the two carriers, the codeshare agreement allows for joint marketing and ticket sales, effectively broadening their combined route networks and creating more travel opportunities for both leisure and business passengers. Aviation analysts note that the partnership arrives at an important moment for the region, where improved connectivity is essential to support economic recovery, boost tourism, and facilitate increased trade between African nations and global markets. TAAG CEO Nelson Rodrigues de Oliveira described the collaboration as a significant step forward for both airlines, stating that the agreement enhances continental connectivity while opening access to strategic international destinations.
He emphasized that the deal strengthens Angola’s position as a growing regional hub and aligns with TAAG’s long-term growth plans and market expansion strategy. SAA Group CEO, Professor John Lamola, also welcomed the partnership, calling it a major milestone for African aviation as the sector continues rebuilding its networks and capacity. Lamola said the collaboration expands SAA’s reach, improves passenger experience, and creates new commercial pathways critical for economic development. He added that the enhanced connectivity will support tourism, investment, cultural exchange, and the movement of goods and people across the continent.
The codeshare is expected to benefit travellers with more flight choices, improved scheduling, and easier connections, particularly for those flying between southern Africa and long-haul destinations served via Luanda. Industry observers view the partnership as part of a growing trend among African carriers to collaborate in order to remain competitive and improve service delivery in a rapidly evolving global aviation landscape.
Both airlines have affirmed their commitment to offering safe, reliable, and customer-centric services while developing a stronger, more connected regional aviation network. With this agreement now in effect, TAAG Angola Airlines and South African Airways say they look forward to delivering enhanced travel options and contributing to the broader goal of strengthening Africa’s aviation infrastructure and international presence.
