Chief executive officer of South African Airways (SAA), John Lamola, has resigned, effective 30 April 2026.
Following a board meeting, the Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, in her capacity as shareholder representative, together with the SAA Board, accepted the resignation.
Lamola took up the top position as the airline emerged from business rescue and navigated the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Creecy noted that, under his stewardship, SAA implemented a disciplined, focused rebuilding strategy, restoring operations and re-establishing its position in a highly competitive global aviation market.
During his tenure, the airline expanded its fleet from five to 19 aircraft and grew its route network from six to 17 destinations.
This included the reintroduction of key international routes such as São Paulo, Brazil, and Perth, Australia, alongside the strengthening of its domestic footprint.
“Professor Lamola has played a pivotal role in rebuilding South African Airways and positioning it for sustained success,” the SAA board said.
“His leadership during a complex and demanding period has left a lasting and positive legacy on the organisation.”
Matshela Seshibe, the Chief Executive Officer of SAA’s subsidiary company, Air Chefs, has been appointed as the Acting Group CEO.
The group said the process to recruit the permanent Group CEO will commence shortly.
