South African Airways Flight Status

About South African Airways

South African Airways, based in South Africa, operates under the ICAO code SAA and the IATA code SA; its radio callsign is "Springbok". On this page you can follow South African Airways flights and find the airports it serves.

How to read a South African Airways flight number

Every South African Airways flight number starts with SA, followed by up to four digits: that is the number on your booking confirmation and boarding pass. In flight plans the same flight carries the ICAO prefix SAA, and controllers address it as "Springbok". One thing to watch: codeshares. A ticket sold by another airline can be operated by South African Airways and vice versa; live tracking follows the operating carrier's number, so if your search comes up empty, check the "operated by" line on your booking.

Frequently asked questions about South African Airways

Where is my South African Airways flight right now?

Search the flight number (SA plus digits) in the search box on this page. If the aircraft is airborne within receiver coverage, you will see its live status; before departure you will see the route.

Is my South African Airways flight delayed or cancelled?

Check the flight number on this page for live status, but for rebooking, gate changes and cancellations the airline itself remains the authoritative source.

What do SA and SAA mean on South African Airways flights?

They are two prefixes for the same airline. SA is the IATA code you see on tickets; SAA is the ICAO code used in flight plans and by air traffic control.

Does South African Airways operate flights for other airlines?

Codeshare agreements mean a flight sold under another carrier's number may be operated by South African Airways, and the reverse. Live tracking always follows the operating carrier's flight number; check the "operated by" line on your booking.