SAA and Gol Linhas Aéreas Revive Codeshare Agreement, Enhancing Connectivity Between South Africa and Brazil

The codeshare agreement between South African Airways (SAA) and Gol Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes is back in effect, connecting Johannesburg and Cape Town with Rio de Janeiro. This renewed partnership, effective immediately, is expected to boost tourism and facilitate business, networking, and socio-political cohesion between South Africa and Brazil.

The original agreement, suspended during the Covid-19 pandemic, has been reinstated and is now open for travel. SAA’s Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Tebogo Tsimane, emphasized the strategic importance of Brazil for South Africa, highlighting the benefits for leisure tourism and business.

The SAA/Gol codeshare agreement covers flights between Cape Town International, OR Tambo International, and Galeão-Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport in Rio. It also includes domestic routes within South Africa, connecting Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Gqeberha, offering Brazilian travelers easy access to these major economic hubs. Additionally, SAA can now add its code to over 20 Gol-operated flights across Brazil, extending connectivity to cities like Brasília, Curitiba, and Porto Alegre.

In the future, the agreement aims to expand to 60 more Latin American and numerous African destinations, providing travelers with more choices for multi-city itineraries on a single ticket. Passengers can also earn SAA Voyager Miles and Gol Smiles through this partnership.

Mr. André Gaspar, Head of Alliances and Distribution at Gol, expressed enthusiasm for the reactivation of the agreement, highlighting its role in strengthening ties between Brazil and Africa. He noted that Gol customers would now have enhanced access to South Africa’s key cities via São Paulo’s Guarulhos Airport.

The codeshare revival marks a significant step in SAA's recovery as an intercontinental service provider. It follows the airline’s recent launch of direct flights to São Paulo and Perth, Australia. Mr. Tsimane stated that the agreement enhances connectivity and travel options not only within Africa but also between Africa, Latin America, and Australia. This move aligns with SAA’s broader strategy to connect people and businesses, fostering national, regional, and continental growth as the airline works towards profitability.