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SAA Appoints John Lamola as CEO, Paving the Way for Growth
The South African travel and tourism industry has welcomed the appointment of Professor John Lamola as the permanent chief executive officer of South African Airways (SAA). Having served as interim CEO since May 2022, Lamola’s official appointment was confirmed by the SAA Board and approved by Public Enterprises Minister Barbara Creecy.
The SAA Board expressed confidence in Lamola’s leadership, citing his strategic vision and understanding of the airline’s challenges as key factors in his appointment. “This marks a turning point for SAA’s long-term financial health,” the Board stated, emphasizing his role in ensuring stability and continuity.
Interim SAA Board Chairperson Derek Hanekom praised Lamola’s commitment, saying, “We are delighted to appoint a dedicated leader who understands SAA’s journey and is eager to oversee its ascent to better skies.”
During Lamola’s interim tenure, SAA expanded its route network from six destinations in 2021 to 16 planned for early 2025. The airline’s fleet grew from six to 20 aircraft, including two Airbus A380s, while staff numbers increased from 800 to 2,000, including 140 pilots. His permanent appointment signals confidence in SAA’s ongoing recovery and its goal of becoming a commercially viable, globally competitive airline.
South African Tourism Board Chairperson Professor Gregory Davids also praised Lamola, stating that his leadership has been instrumental in SAA’s financial recovery. “SAA’s stability and expansion under his leadership will enhance connectivity, improve visitor experiences, and drive economic growth,” Davids noted.
With Lamola at the helm, SAA is set for further growth, strengthening its role as a key driver of South Africa’s tourism and aviation sectors.
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