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This year marks a significant date in South African history as it celebrates the centenary year of one of our country's celebrated leaders, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. Joining in on the tributes is Africa’s leading carrier, South African Airways (SAA), proudly announcing its support of centenary celebrations of our humble former President.

To mark this milestone, SAA has introduced special initiatives to honour Madiba, in keeping with the worldwide centenary campaign by the Nelson Mandela Foundation and SA Tourism, and to celebrate what would have been Nelson Mandela’s 100th birthday. SAA has branded three aircraft within its fleet - an Airbus A320-200, A330-300, and an A340-600, with its own specially designed logo, as well as the official ‘Be the Legacy’ logo in recognition of Nelson Mandela’s contribution to humanity and as a sign of respect for the late President and philanthropist.

Over the coming months, headrest covers and special edition paper cups inside the planes will inspire travellers to contemplate and reflect on Madiba’s legacy and carry these with them to their next destination. SAA’s in-flight entertainment will also be reflective of the Nelson Mandela Centenary, and travellers are encouraged to watch the movie, Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, and the sports documentary – Mandela’s World Cup, on SAA’s international flights.

SAA’s support of the Centenary, which runs for the entire year, will culminate in a surprise element later in the year, which promises to carry further the Nelson Mandela legacy across the airline’s route network.

“As an African carrier with global reach, it is only natural for SAA to celebrate what would have been Tata’s 100th birthday, by sharing his values with South Africans and people around the world. We hope that through these small gestures we can inspire others to strive for his ideals and continue his legacy,” says Tlali Tlali, SAA Spokesperson.

Customers who are members of SAA’s frequent flyer programme, Voyager, will also be given the chance to give back, by voluntarily donating some of their Voyager Miles to the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. In addition, Voyager customers flying today, Wednesday, 18 July will earn an extra 100 Voyager Miles per sector when flying on SAA-operated flights only.
 
“We hope these gestures show our gratitude and recognise his selfless contribution towards the freedom and democracy we enjoy today,” concludes Tlali.
 
Finally, as Madiba’s smiling face appears on the July 2018 cover of Sawubona, SAA’s in-flight magazine, articles within urge passengers to visit some of the must-see historic Mandela sites across the country. These include the 100 landmarks that shaped Nelson Mandela’s journey.
 
South Africa continues to honour the man who touched the world, and South African Airways invites you to engage with his remarkable legacy.

Issued by SAA