South African Airways (SAA) has announced the appointment of Professor John M. Lamola as its Group Chief Executive Officer, marking a pivotal moment in the airline’s journey towards sustained financial growth and global competitiveness.
Professor Lamola has been serving as SAA’s interim CEO since May 2022, playing a key role in stabilising the airline and returning it to profitability. His permanent appointment, approved by Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, is seen as a crucial step in ensuring long-term stability and expansion.
“The SAA Board is delighted to appoint a dedicated leader who is well-versed in SAA’s operations and future vision,” said Derek Hanekom, SAA Board Interim Chairperson. “We wish Professor Lamola and SAA a safe flight into an even brighter future.”
Restoring profitability and expanding operations
Under Lamola’s leadership, SAA reported a net profit of R252 million in the 2022/23 financial year—the airline’s first profit since 2012. Revenue climbed to R5.7 billion, up from R2 billion the previous year.
SAA has also expanded its operations, increasing its route network from six destinations in 2021 to 16 by early 2025, while its fleet has grown from six to 20 aircraft, including the addition of two Airbus A330s. The airline’s workforce has doubled, reaching approximately 2,000 employees, including 140 pilots.
Driving economic impact and job creation
A study by Oxford Economics Africa highlights SAA’s significant contribution to South Africa’s economy. In the 2023/24 financial year, the airline’s gross value added (GVA) to the country’s GDP was R9.1 billion, with projections indicating a rise to R32.6 billion by 2029/30.
SAA is also a key job creator, with employment impact expected to increase from 25,200 jobs in 2023/24 to 86,700 by 2029/30. Additionally, the airline’s activities are projected to generate government revenue of R4.4 billion by 2029/30, up from R1.1 billion in 2023/24.
An experienced aviation leader
Professor Lamola brings extensive aviation industry experience, having led private equity investments in the sector and served as CEO of Denel Aviation from 1996 to 2001. He was also a board member of Airports Company South Africa from 2012 to 2017.
With a PhD from Edinburgh University and an MBA from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida, his expertise spans both aviation management and strategic leadership.
“Professor Lamola can now continue growing SAA with confidence, knowing that he has the full support of the SAA Board and its shareholders,” Hanekom added.
With a strong financial trajectory and a commitment to expansion, SAA is poised to strengthen its position as a leading regional, continental, and global airline under Lamola’s leadership.
