Africa Beat’s editor, Kate Webster, recently travelled to South Africa with South African Airways for the South Africa Tourism MegaLekker Famil. In this flight review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Business Class experience onboard Flight Review: South African Airways SA281 from Perth to Johannesburg in Business Class.
From pre-flight amenities to in-flight service and comfort, we’ll explore every aspect of the journey, providing insights and recommendations for travellers considering this route.
Airline: South African Airways (SA)
Flight Number: SA281
Aircraft: Airbus A340-300
Seat: Business Class
Baggage Allowance: Two pieces, each with a maximum weight of 32 kg + carry-on piece
Departure and Flight Duration: Departs Perth at 11:25pm, with a flight time of approximately 11 hours and 15 minutes
Check-In and Lounge Access
I had flown in from Brisbane on a connecting flight with Virgin Australia, SAA’s codeshare partner, so I had to transfer from the domestic terminal to the international terminal. This was easy enough as my bag had been checked all the way from Brisbane through to Johannesburg, and the international terminal is connected to the Virgin Australia Terminal. If checking in at Perth airport, there is a dedicated line for Business Class travellers to check in with SAA. SAA’s check-in desk utilize desk numbers 1-7. Airport check-in opens at 20h40 in the evening.
To avoid queuing at the airport, online check-in opens 24 hours before each flight and will remain open until 2 hours before departure. A dedicated bag drop is available at the airport for a smooth, hassle-free start to your journey. A member of staff will be on hand if you need help. You can select your seats free of charge and print your boarding pass in advance.
Flying Business Class gives access to the lounge prior to departure. South African Airways uses the Air New Zealand lounge, situated in the transit area on the departure level.
Boarding
With priority boarding privileges, passengers in Business Class are among the first to step onboard the aircraft. I was welcomed by the attentive cabin crew, and escorted to my seat before being offered a drink.
Cabin and Seat
The Airbus A340-300’s Business Class cabin is configured to provide ample space. Although the cabin is dated, the draw card here is the seats are designed to recline fully into lie-flat beds, catering to restful long-haul travel. Each seat is equipped with adjustable settings, personal lighting, and sufficient storage for personal items. With blankets and pillows provided, this made for a comfortable flight.
In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity
A personal entertainment system is available at each seat, offering a selection of movies, television shows, music, and games. It took me a while to figure out the system as it was a bit clunky, but I got it in the end. I had brought my own noise-cancelling headphones that I easily plugged in, but there are headphones available for those who need them. Being a night flight, I mostly slept, so I didn’t dive into the in-flight entertainment too much. There was no Wi-Fi connectivity on this flight.
Dining Experience
The in-flight dining experience features a menu inspired by both international and South African cuisines. Meals are prepared with attention to quality and presentation, accompanied by a curated selection of South African wines and other beverages. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice. Soon after taking off, dinner was served, which I was grateful for as it was a late night departure and I was keen to get to sleep. I woke in the morning prior to landing in Johannesburg, being served a cooked breakfast, fruit and cereal. I personally don’t like to drink on flights, but a quick look at the wine menu would have me ordering it all if I were on the ground – nothing beats South African wines!
Service and Hospitality
SAA’s cabin crew are known for their professionalism and attentiveness, striving to meet passenger needs promptly. The service approach strikes a balance between efficiency and genuine hospitality, contributing to a pleasant flight experience. The staff were also happy to share local tips of their home towns in South Africa and I left with some suggestions on where to get a drink and good meal in Cape Town.
Arrival and Conclusion
The flight concludes at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, and for those with onward connections, the airport offers a range of facilities and lounges to enhance the transit experience. There is even a Meet and Greet service you can book at a cost, that means someone will meet you the moment you step off the plane before helping you with baggage collection and through to your exit of the terminal.
South African Airways’ SA281 Business Class service provides a comfortable and efficient link between Perth and Johannesburg. The combination of direct routing, lie-flat seating, quality dining, and attentive service makes it a viable option for travellers seeking a premium experience on this route. The only thing I struggle with on this flight is arriving around 5am in Johannesburg and having to stay awake all day to avoid jetlag.
Overall Rating: ★★★★ (4/5)
SAA operates flights Perth (PER) to Johannesburg (JNB) 5 times a week on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. For more on flight schedules and pricing, visit flysaa or check your GDS.
The writer travelled on a paid flight sponsored by South Africa Tourism and Adventure Destinations.
