South African Airways leases a Boeing Aircraft.

Starting today (9 July), South African Airways (SAA) will be operating a leased Boeing 737 aircraft on select domestic routes. SAA has emphasised that the lease is a short-term temporary solution. A statement released by the airline read, “The ongoing expansion of the destinations flown by South African Airways (SAA), as well as industry-wide constraints with aircraft availability has led SAA to enter into a temporary agreement to operate a fully serviced leased aircraft for a limited period.”

Although South African Airways provided very limited information on the aircraft, a little research revealed that the aircraft being leased is a 25 year old Boeing 737-300 with 148 seats in an all economy configuration. The aircraft belongs to Africa Chater Airline who actually took delivery of the aircraft in June. The aircraft has no airline livery as it’s painted all white.

South African Airways claims to have adjusted prices for flights operated by the B737 so as to make it cheaper compared to their A320 operated flights which offer a more premium full service flight experience. Access to SAA lounges and fast-track options remain available to all eligible customers.