Questions and Answers

I’m planning on traveling to South Africa next March/April (2020) but am concerned about the current financial situation of SAA.

Do you think it’s safe to book a flight on this airline? Or should I go with another route/airline? (I just really prefer the direct from JFK to Joburg…)

Hi Stacey,

I was going to write that I’d take a chance, as SAA is state-owned, and although it is having financial difficulties, the gov’t won’t let it go under. But this makes me rethink my advice: [URL]https://www.reuters.com/article/us-safrica-saa/south-african-airways-shunned-by-insurers-as-financial-doubts-grow-idUSKBN1Y323C[/URL]
I would still take a chance, as I bet some one will cough up the ~$150 million needed to keep flying. Depends on risk adverse you are – I’d risk an economy ticket, but probably not a paid J ticket, unless I had rock solid credit card protection that I knew would allow me to get my $ back.

I’m in a similar situation. I have a ticket on Hong Kong Airways for DAN – HKG in May. Cost $109. My friend and I just bought a second ticket on Viet Jet Air, just in case (well, actually, the timing works better as well). Though I never was a boy scout, I like being prepared for international travel.

Let us know what you choose, if you don’t mind.

If you’re looking for a direct routing, you could also consider Delta, with a quick connection in Atlanta. The flight is relatively the same length, and depending on the cabin you are planning to fly in, Delta 777 is better than South African 340…