Angolan airline Transportes Aéreos Angolano (TAAG) has signed a new codeshare agreement with South African Airways (SAA), marking a significant milestone for aviation in Southern Africa. The partnership is aimed at enhancing passenger travel while potentially expanding airfreight options across the region.
The agreement is now in effect, with ticket sales open and flights operational. It is designed to provide passengers with smoother travel experiences and broaden the airlines’ collective reach across Africa, Europe, and South America.
Expanded Routes and Connectivity
Under the arrangement:
-
SAA will place its flight code on TAAG-operated services connecting Johannesburg and Cape Town with Luanda, Angola’s capital.
-
The codeshare also covers long-haul routes from Luanda to Lisbon, Portugal, and São Paulo, Brazil.
-
In return, TAAG gains access to several key destinations in SAA’s regional network, including Durban, Gqeberha, Cape Town, Harare, and Lusaka.
With systems integration completed by both airlines, passengers can now enjoy integrated check-in, smoother baggage transfers, and the convenience of purchasing a single ticket in local currency, making travel seamless and efficient.
Economic and Strategic Significance
The partnership comes at a pivotal time for Southern African aviation. Analysts note that improved air links are critical for economic recovery, tourism growth, and facilitating trade between African markets and global partners.
TAAG CEO Nelson Rodrigues de Oliveira highlighted the strategic importance of the collaboration:
“This partnership strengthens continental connectivity while opening the door to key international destinations. It reinforces Angola’s role as an emerging regional hub and aligns with our long-term growth and market expansion strategy.”
SAA Group CEO Professor John Lamola described the codeshare as a major milestone for African aviation, stating:
“This collaboration extends SAA’s reach, enhances the passenger experience, and creates new commercial pathways essential for economic development. Improved connectivity will support tourism, investment, cultural exchange, and the movement of people and goods across the continent.”
Looking Ahead
The TAAG-SAA codeshare partnership reflects the airlines’ shared commitment to strengthening regional and international air connectivity, supporting economic growth, and providing passengers with efficient, high-quality travel options. As the aviation sector continues to rebuild, collaborations like this are poised to play a vital role in driving Southern Africa’s aviation recovery and growth.
