Kenya Airways and SAA have announced a new lounge access agreement as part of the Strategic Partnership Framework agreement signed in November 2021.
Under the agreement, the airlines work together to increase passenger traffic, cargo opportunities and general trade, by taking advantage of strengths in South Africa, Kenya, and Africa with a view to eventually forming a Pan-African airline company.
The lounge access agreement will allow KQ business-class customers to have exclusive access to the lounge services at SAA’s ultra-modern Premium Lounge at OR Tambo in Johannesburg. The lounge offers a comfortable escape from the hustle of the airport, and facilities include complimentary WiFi, entertainment, food and beverages.
Julius Thairu, Kenya Airways Chief Commercial Officer, said: “One of the key objectives of the partnership between KQ and SAA is to create win-win outcomes for customers and to deliver exceptional service with high levels of customer satisfaction. As air travel begins to pick up, we are seeing customers demanding a more seamless, personalised experience. We will continue working closely as equal partners to ensure that the experience is seamless at every point.”
Simon Newton-Smith, Executive Commercial at SAA, said the lounge access would be reciprocal for SAA customers flying to Nairobi, signalling the benefits of the strategic partnership for the customers of both airlines.