South African Express Airways, often abbreviated as SA Express, is a regional airline based in South Africa. It is a state-owned entity and operates as a subsidiary of South African Airways (SAA). SA Express primarily focuses on offering domestic and regional flights within South Africa and nearby countries.
As a regional airline, SA Express provides air transportation services to various destinations in South Africa, including major cities and smaller towns. It also serves several regional destinations in neighboring countries such as Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. The airline's main hub is at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.
SA Express is known for its fleet of smaller aircraft, primarily consisting of Bombardier CRJ and ERJ series jets. These aircraft are well-suited for short to medium-haul flights, making SA Express an ideal choice for regional travel.
Additionally, SA Express aims to provide affordable and convenient air travel options to passengers, particularly those residing in smaller towns and rural areas. The airline aims to connect these areas with major cities and enhance regional connectivity.
Though operating as a subsidiary of SAA, SA Express maintains its own distinct branding and livery. It operates under its own Air Operator Certificate and has its own management and operational structure. However, due to financial difficulties faced by both SAA and SA Express, the latter temporarily suspended operations in early 2018 and relaunched in August 2018 with a reduced route network.
