Turkish Airlines, the national flag carrier of Türkiye, and South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa, have entered into a codeshare agreement. The agreement was formalised on 4 December 2025 during a ceremony in Geneva, Switzerland, held alongside the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board (CEB) meeting. Senior executives from both airlines officiated the signing.
Commenting on the agreement, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee, Prof. Ahmet Bolat stated: “Our codeshare agreement with South African Airways is a meaningful step in further strengthening our presence in the African market and deepening the cooperation between Türkiye and South Africa. As the largest non-African airline operating in Africa, we attach great importance to sustainable partnerships that enhance connectivity and cultivate long-term value for our guests.”
South African Airways Group CEO, Prof. John Lamola, said: “South African Airways welcomes this codeshare partnership as a strategic step in expanding safe, reliable, and competitive air services for our customers. Turkish Airlines is a respected global carrier, and this collaboration reflects our shared commitment to strengthening connectivity between Africa and Türkiye. Partnerships of this nature play an important role in supporting tourism, trade, and sustainable economic development.”
Under the new agreement, Turkish Airlines will place its “TK” flight code on South African Airways-operated flights – Johannesburg /Cape Town/Durban/Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)/ Windhoek/Harare/Victoria Falls /Mauritius flights.
South African Airways will place its ‘‘SA’’ flight code on Turkish Airlines-operated flights – İstanbul – Johannesburg/Cape Town/Durban/Frankfurt/Paris/London flights. As part of the codeshare, both airlines will explore the opportunities to expand their networks through strategic route opportunities.
Both airlines are committed to delivering an exceptional travel experience and fostering a strong partnership that promotes tourism, trade, and connectivity between South Africa and Türkiye. Ticket sales will commence on 1 March 2026.
