5 Secrets about South African Airlines That Nobody Will Tell You.

In 2016, South Africa’s most famous airline “South African Airways” is going to celebrate its 82nd birthday. As it was founded in February 1934 by Allister miller but later taken over by South African Government.  The aircraft carrier provides a variety of quality services to its passengers along with online systems to book plane tickets and other lodging and medical benefits. 

We have compiled the history of South African Airlines again and enlisted 5 secrets that probably you don’t know. Have a look:

1. First Ever Airline to Operate A Passenger Jet

The South African Airlines is the first flagship in Africa and 2nd in the whole world to include passenger jets in their flight lists. But, this jet worked only till 1960 and later got replaced by Boeing 707. 

2. Only 5 Star rated Airline in South Africa

South African airlines have been rated a 4-star rating by Skytrax and also enlisted in best airlines of Africa in the queue followed by Air Seychelles and Air Mauritius. If you are wondering for 4 stars then you might know that the best-voted airline in the world Emirates has also 4-star ratings. Along with the best ratings, this aircraft service is also known for cheap flight tickets.

3. South African Airways has its own museum at Rand Airport

The South African airlines have another positive resource as the museum at the Rand airport. Actually, the retired planes are usually sold or scraped by these companies but later SAA decided to keep them as historic symbols. One can find all types of historic aircraft lined up in this museum at Rand Airport.

4. Created World Record in 1976

This airline has a world record of its name also, as on 23rd of March 1976 it's one flight Boeing 747sp created history with a longest non-stop flight between Seattle and Cape Town. The total distance of 16,560 KMs was covered in just 17 hours and 22 minutes.

5. Banned in USA, Australia and Other countries

South African airlines were banned in most of the countries across African Continent. In the end of 1980, they were banned from landing in the United States because of the Anti-Apartheid act and so that the Australia did in 1987. But in the end of 1990, all these restrictions were lifted and the even new destination was introduced.