South African Airways (SA, Johannesburg O.R. Tambo) is temporarily wet-leasing a B737-300 from Africa Charter Airline (FSK, Johannesburg O.R. Tambo) to meet domestic demand as it continues to expand its network while facing industry-wide constraints with aircraft availability.
From July 9, ZS-TFY (msn 28733) has been deployed by SAA on the "golden triangle" of high-volume trunk routes between Johannesburg O.R. Tambo, Durban King Shaka, and Cape Town International, ADS-B data shows.
In a statement, Interim Chief Executive Officer John Lamola said the aircraft would be wet-leased for a limited period while SAA readied itself for growth.
In addition, he said, SAA was moving towards a hybrid service by operating aircraft with economy class only along with its full-service aircraft. "This will provide customers with an opportunity to book on a range of specialised prices for a limited period only. Our premium customers, already booked, will continue to enjoy the full range of seamless and comfortable services, including priority check-in and priority boarding. Access to SAA lounges is available to eligible individuals, standard baggage allowance as well as fast track where available."
SAA also operates five A320-200s on domestic and regional routes and one A330-300 on long-haul services, with one A340-300 used as a spare and for charters.
