MTHULISI SIBANDA
JOHANNESBURG – SOUTH African Airways has received its first new A330-300 aircraft.
The aircraft arrival forms part of five new A330-300 aircraft on order, which will enable the airline to expand its current route network and improve its efficiencies.
“A new aircraft arrival in our fleet is a special occasion and does not happen often. We are therefore very excited about the potential for growth the new arrivals will offer,” says SAA Acting Chief Executive Officer, Musa Zwane.
In SAA’s configuration, the aircraft has capacity for 249 passengers, with 46 in premium Business Class and 203 in Economy Class.
The latest model A330-300s feature an increased 242-tonne maximum take-off weight and have an extended range of 6 350 nautical miles (11 750km) – typically routes of up to 11 hours – compared with previous versions of the aircraft.

– Guardian