South African Airways to resume Lagos flights December — after 18-month suspension

South African Airways (SAA) has announced the resumption of flight operations on its Johannesburg-Lagos route.

The airline had suspended commercial flights in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and operational challenges.

It had also ceased all cargo and repatriation flights in September 2020.

In a statement on Friday, Thomas Kgokolo, the interim chief executive officer of South African Airways, said the flights would resume operation on December 12, 2021.

He said that the Johannesburg- Lagos service would operate three times per week with plans to increase the frequencies to daily in the future.

“This specific destination takes SAA into one of the biggest travel markets in Africa and we’re delighted that we are again able to resume operations, providing a link between Africa’s two biggest economies,” Kgokolo said.

Kgokolo said the service is part of SAA’s gradual growth strategy, having resumed operations in September 2021.

“Our intention is to continue to develop our route network driven by passenger demand and revenue potential. We are constantly evaluating opportunities, both locally, regionally, and internationally,” he added.

“After months of diligent work, we are delighted that SAA is resuming service and we look forward to welcoming onboard our loyal passengers and flying the South African flag. We continue to be a safe carrier and adhere to COVID-19 protocols.

“There is a profound feeling of enthusiasm within Team SAA as we prepare for takeoff, with one common purpose -to rebuild and sustain a profitable airline that once again takes a leadership role among local, continental, and international airlines.”

According to Kgokolo, the Johannesburg-Lagos flights would service the tourism market in South Africa and Nigeria now that international travel restrictions are being revised.