Travel in comfort and elegance with South African Airways Business Class. This guide from FlightsLux explores lie-flat seats, regionally inspired cuisine, warm hospitality, and access to premium lounges. Learn how to book discounted South African Airways Business Class tickets and enjoy a seamless and luxurious journey to Africa and beyond.
Find Business Class South African Airways
Business Class South African Airways is part of the flagship offering by South African Airways, the national carrier airline of South Africa. It is headquartered in Airways Park at the O.R. Tambo International Airport in Kempton Park.
How to Book South African Airways Business Class with FlightsLux
Step 1: Visit FlightsLux.com
Start by visiting the FlightsLux website. The platform is known for unpublished Business Class fares on top airlines—including South African Airways, perfect for flights to or from Africa.
Step 2: Click “Request a Quote”
From the homepage, click the “Request a Quote” button. This opens a short form for you to enter your travel preferences.
Step 3: Enter Your Travel Details
Fill in the following information in the form:
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From: Your departure airport or city
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To: Destination city in South Africa or elsewhere (e.g., Johannesburg, Cape Town, Nairobi, New York)
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Departure Date and Return Date (for round-trip)
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Class of Service: Choose Business Class
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Preferred Airline: Type South African Airways
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Number of Passengers
Step 4: Add Optional Travel Preferences
You may include special notes such as:
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Flexible travel dates
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Nonstop or shortest route preference
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Lounge access or specific seat type
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Accessibility, dietary, or mobility requirements
Step 5: Submit the Quote Request
Click“Get My Quote” to send your request. FlightsLux’s experienced travel concierge will begin sourcing the best Business Class fares on South African Airways for your itinerary.
Step 6: Receive a Personalized Fare Quote
Within a few hours (usually same-day), a FlightsLux agent will contact you with:
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The best available Business Class fare
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A full itinerary with stopover and timing details
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Aircraft and seat information
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Ticket rules, baggage limits, and upgrade options
Step 7: Confirm Your Booking
If you’re satisfied with the offer:
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Confirm the quote via email or phone
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Make payment via credit card or wire transfer
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FlightsLux will issue your South African Airways Business Class e-ticket
Step 8: Receive Your Confirmation & Support
After booking, you’ll receive:
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E-ticket confirmation
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Itinerary details
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Access to 24/7 travel concierge support before and during your journey
Business Class Ownership and Network
Under it ownership, the airline has interests in SA Express, SA Airlink, and its low-cost carrier Mango. As a result, they are able to fly to 56 destinations within South Africa and around the world from their hub in Johannesburg.
Fleet and Historical Background
The airline owns a total of 47 airplanes. Founded in 1934, South African Airways began operations following the acquisition of Union Airways by the South African government.
Managing Political Unrest and Economic Challenges
The 1980s were a particularly difficult time for expansion. This was mainly due to being banned from landing in various African countries for their position on apartheid. At that time, they operated under their Afrikaans name, Suid-Afrikaansa Lugdiens.
However, in 1997, SA Airways replaced their emblem and old national colors with a new livery. Their name was also changed to South African Airways, and they joined the Star Alliance program.
Business Class Leadership Changes and Operational Shifts
In a significant move, the state-owned airline hired a new CEO to investigate why the airline was struggling. Market research revealed the issues were a result of a “failure to fly on time, unfriendly and minimally trained staff, poor food, and fares 25% higher than competitors.” Fortunately, Mr. Andrews managed to turn the airline around, and its market value increased fivefold.
South African Airways Business Class Restructuring Efforts
In May 2007, South African Airways launched an 18-month comprehensive restructuring program aimed at transforming the unprofitable airline. During this period, they sold off seven subsidiaries and chose to focus on core passenger business. Nevertheless, scandals and poor operations continued to follow the airline.
International Flights and Business Class Route Adjustments
South African Airways began business class flights to Beijing, China in 2012. However, Buenos Aires flights ended in 2013. By 2015, the airline determined that its only profitable long-haul routes were to Hong Kong, Munich, Frankfurt, and Perth.
Headquarters and Architectural Design
South African Airways is headquartered in Airways Park, located on the grounds of OR Tambo International Airport in Kempton Park. The building was developed by Stauch Vorster Architects.
The Legacy of the “Flying Springbok” in South African Airways Business Class
The “Flying Springbok” logo was introduced when the airline was created in 1934 and remained until 1997. Although the logo was discontinued when the airline received a new name and livery, the word “Springbok” lives on as the airline’s radio callsign.
✍️ Author Box
Written by FlightsLux Editorial Team
The FlightsLux Editorial Team is made up of seasoned travel experts and premium airfare analysts who specialize in business and first-class air travel. With a focus on luxury, value, and expert insights, the team helps travelers unlock elevated experiences on top international carriers.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only. FlightsLux is an independent travel booking platform and is not affiliated with South African Airways. Flight services, availability, and pricing are subject to change. Always verify all booking details with the airline or a certified travel agent before making a reservation.
