SAA Partners with Hi Fly to Maintain Service During Scheduled A330 Maintenance

South African Airways (SAA) has implemented strategic measures to ensure the continuity of its full operational schedule during the planned heavy maintenance of several wide-body aircraft from 15 September 2025 through the end of November 2025.

To facilitate this, an Airbus A330-300 has been leased from Hi Fly, configured to align with our fleet standards, ensuring passengers continue to experience reliable connectivity throughout our network.

Hi Fly is the leading specialist in Airbus Widebody aircraft wet leasing worldwide. The company is EASA and IOSA certified, FAA approved, holds Air Operator Certificates (AOCs) in Portugal and Malta, and is licensed for global operations.

Hi Fly will conduct specific SAA flights using an aircraft configured similarly to our widebody fleet, accommodating 249 passengers for intercontinental journeys. This aircraft will be deployed on routes linking Johannesburg with Lagos, Accra, and São Paulo.

SAA Group Chief Executive, Prof. John Lamola, explained, “This temporary arrangement that is normal in the airline industry is similar to our arrangement with Sun Express. It represents an innovative solution that enables South African Airways to maintain its operational schedule and revenue targets while upholding our unwavering commitment to reliability, connectivity, and safety.”

SAA claims to appreciate the importance of a consistent and premium travel experience that our customers are accustomed to. While the Hi Fly-operated aircraft mirrors our A330 layout, there are some differences in the cabin that passengers should be aware of. On-board entertainment: Entertainment will be available via streaming only. Passengers are encouraged to bring their own device, headset, and power cord (BYOD).