South African Airways (SA, Johannesburg O.R. Tambo) and CemAir (5Z, Johannesburg O.R. Tambo) have announced a domestic codeshare partnership starting January 26, which gives the flag carrier access to secondary and tertiary markets in South Africa that it does not serve itself. Passengers will be able to book integrated, single-ticket itineraries with baggage through-check and "seamless connections".

SAA CEO John Lamola labelled the agreement a "game-changer for domestic travel in South Africa" as it connects SAA’s trunk routes to Johannesburg O.R. Tambo, Cape Town International, Durban King Shaka, and Port Elizabeth, with regional and leisure destinations served by CemAir such as George, East London, Margate, Kimberley, Hoedspruit, and Mala Mala.

SAA has been looking to establish a joint venture with a domestic feeder carrier, or invest in starting a feeder that will operate a lower-gauge sub-fleet. On inquiry, the airline was unable to provide an updated timeline for an anticipated request for proposals (RFP) for its long-term fleet requirements, which was expected to be issued by the end of 2025.