The World Cup Was A Great Success For South Africa. Has South African Airways Noticed More Recognition Due To The Event?

As the national airline of South Africa, it’s important to us that people not only have a good experience on our airline, but also within our homeland. We worked hand in hand with the government and the tourism industry to ensure that visitors would receive a warm welcome and the best service. Many Americans and people throughout the world flew with South African Airways as part of their World Cup trip, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. We were also privileged to be the official airline to Africa for the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team. That they entrusted us with their travel to such an important tournament was an honor.

Tell Our Readers About Your Business-class Product And What They Can Expect From A Flight On SAA.

The experience for every passenger is precisely designed for comfort during long-haul travel. That’s why our Premium

Business Class features Skytrax 5-star comfort-rated, 180-degree flatbed seats. We also offer fine cuisine and a selection of the best South African wines. An individual, on-demand audio/video entertainment system provides a host of movies and music to choose from. We are proud that our passengers experience the magic and warmth of South Africa from the moment they board.

How Has SAA’s Affiliation With Star Alliance Improved The Traveling Experience?

The ability to book flights with seamless connections and earn frequent-flyer miles on 28 different airlines has certainly been an enhancement for travelers on SAA. Conversely, SAA’s extensive network of flights within southern Africa and the rest of the continent have added outstanding connection options for Star Alliance members, and our new lounges in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town make their travel even more comfortable.

We’ve also formed new partnerships with other outstanding airlines. Our interline agreements with JetBlue and Virgin America allow passengers to purchase one ticket for their journey and check bags between those airlines and SAA. Flights with Star Alliance carriers, as well as our new partners, can be booked and purchased at http://flysaa.com.

What Is Your Advice For Business Travelers Looking To Travel To South Africa?

With our non-stop from JFK and our direct flight from Washington, D.C. (via Dakar), business travelers have two daily SAA flights to choose from, plus a host of connection opportunities to nearly 20 cities in South Africa and more than 25 cities throughout the rest of the continent. No one covers southern Africa better than we do.

Once in the region, the opportunities for companies and entrepreneurs abound, and the framework is in place to get business done. This is why South Africa is considered the most advanced economy in Africa, and it’s where a number of companies have based their African operations. South Africa is open and ready for business, and South African Airways is the best way to get there.
For more from Marc Cavaliere, watch our exclusive video interview at http://newgtsite.wpengine.com