South African Airways is setting new standards in comfort.
South African Airways’ first A340-300 fitted with a radically improved interior will be introduced to Perth services during the next few months.
The airline has given its fleet a long overdue total makeover and introduced lie-flat beds for business class, which have been voted ‘the most comfortable business class flat-bed’ by Skytrax.
The seat reclines to a true 180-degree flat bed, unlike most business class beds, which are on a slight incline.
The seat bristles with features.
Your individual reading light has four light settings, while there is power and a telephone at every seat and audio/video on demand.
SAA has also given first class – to be found on its 747-400s – a makeover with lie-flat beds that are among the widest – 73 centimetres – in the industry.
Like other first class offerings, the airline has opted for an extra large dining table, which gives the opportunity for dual dining.
First class seats feature all the electronic bells and whistles that give you options to relax with a movie or turn your seat into an office.
SAA has also upgraded its economy class with audio/video on demand, while its 747-400 offers the choice of premium economy with an 89cm seat pitch.
On the A340-300s that serve Perth, the airline has standard economy at 79cm seat pitch but is upgrading the economy product to have 84-86.5cm seat pitch, while installing new slimmer entertainment boxes under seats for more room and “simplifying the design of the seat at floor level” to remove obstructions.
The airline has also given its domestic fleet a once over with PC power provided on its new Airbus A319s.
SAA has also revamped its lounges in London and Johannesburg.
In London, premium class passengers can have their clothes steamed while they shower after arrival and then enjoy a hot breakfast before setting off for meetings.