Contact South African Airways customer service

Fastest way to reach South African Airways

Pick the channel that matches your request — it reduces wait time and avoids transfers:

• Same-day changes, delayed or missed flight, medical assistance — call the phone number above.
• Baggage (lost, damaged, delayed) — start with the airline's online baggage tracer, then follow up by phone if unresolved.
• Refund or reimbursement — submit the online refund form on the official airline website.
• Name change, seat selection, booking modification — easiest through "Manage my booking" on the website; phone as fallback.
• Complaint or feedback — use the written complaint form on the airline's website so the case is traceable.

Common South African Airways support topics

Baggage claim. If your luggage arrives damaged, missing, or delayed, report it at the airport baggage desk before leaving and keep your baggage tag — the reference number is required for the online tracer. Compensation for lost baggage is governed by the Montreal Convention.

Refunds and reimbursement. Refund eligibility depends on the fare rules of your ticket. Non-refundable tickets may still qualify for a tax refund or travel voucher. When South African Airways cancels a flight, you can request a full cash refund via the online form regardless of fare class.

Name change and booking modification. Minor spelling corrections (up to 3 characters) are typically free. Larger changes, passenger substitution, or date/route changes follow your fare's change rules — check "Manage my booking" before calling.

Online check-in. South African Airways online check-in typically opens 24–30 hours before departure. At O. R. Tambo International Airport and most major hubs, you can drop bags at self-service kiosks. Mobile boarding passes are supported in the airline app.

Special assistance. Request mobility, medical or unaccompanied-minor assistance at least 48 hours before departure through the contact channels above. Bringing a service dog or medical equipment requires advance notification.

Passenger rights in the EU (Regulation 261/2004)

If your South African Airways flight departs from an EU airport, or arrives at an EU airport operated by an EU carrier, you may be entitled to compensation and care under EU Regulation 261/2004 when:

• your flight is delayed 3 hours or more on arrival;
• your flight is cancelled less than 14 days before departure;
• you are denied boarding due to overbooking.

Compensation ranges from €250 to €600 depending on flight distance, and is not payable for delays caused by extraordinary circumstances such as severe weather or air-traffic control strikes. You are also entitled to meals, refreshments and, where necessary, overnight accommodation during long waits.

This is informational, not legal advice. Submit claims to South African Airways via the contact channels above, or consult the EU air passenger rights overview on Your Europe.

Frequently asked questions about South African Airways

What is South African Airways's customer service phone number?

South African Airways customer service can be reached at +44 208 576 5100.

Where can I find South African Airways support online?

Visit https://www.flysaa.com/ for official support options.

Does South African Airways customer service offer support in English?

Yes, South African Airways offers English-speaking customer service. Call +44 208 576 5100 for support in English.

Is South African Airways customer service available 24 hours?

South African Airways customer service is not always available 24 hours a day. Check the opening hours section on this page for the current schedule.

Related airlines

Other Star Alliance airlines: Aegean Airlines · Air Canada · Air China · Air India · Air New Zealand

About South African Airways

South African Airways was founded in 1934 and is headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa. Its primary hub is O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB). IATA code SA, ICAO code SAA.

South African Airways is a member of Star Alliance.