South African Airways Online Check-In Guide (2026)
South African Airways online check-in opens 24 hours before departure and closes 90 minutes before domestic flights and 2 hours before international flights. Passengers can check in via flysaa.com or the SAA mobile app using their booking reference or e-ticket number.
Check-In Timing
| Airline | South African Airways (SA) |
|---|---|
| Check-In Opens | 24 hours before departure |
| Check-In Closes | 90 minutes before domestic flights, 2 hours before international flights |
| Check-In URL | https://www.flysaa.com/manage-fly/manage/check-in |
| Mobile App | South African Airways app (iOS, Android) |
| Mobile Boarding Pass | Yes |
| Airport Kiosk | Yes |
Step-by-Step Check-In Guide
1. Visit flysaa.com or open the South African Airways app. 2. Enter your Surname and Booking Reference, Voyager Number, or E-Ticket Number. 3. Select your seat if applicable. 4. Add your Voyager frequent flyer number. 5. Print your boarding pass or save it to your mobile device. 6. Proceed to the bag drop counter or straight to security if you have hand luggage only.
Documents Needed
Government issued identity card, Passport, Refugee identity document, South African issued Drivers' license, or Birth Certificate for children under 18. Digital or electronic documents are not accepted.
Seat Selection
Seat selection is available during online check-in. Advance seat assignment charges may apply for Economy Class Saver fares (starting from 10 USD/ZAR 51). Passengers can choose remaining seats free of charge (except exit row seats) when online check-in opens 24 hours prior to departure.
International Check-In Rules
Passport required. Profiling for immigration purposes may require evidence of confirmed accommodation, health documents, sufficient funds, and valid return or onward air tickets.
Group Check-In
If you're travelling in a group you can check-in everyone at once, then print out the boarding passes or have them emailed to you.
Troubleshooting
1. 'Unable to check in online' - Ensure you are within the 24-hour window and not on a codeshare flight operated by another carrier. 2. 'Mobile boarding pass not accepted' - Home printed boarding passes and mobile wallet passes are not permitted for flights to Sao Paulo; proceed to the airport counter. 3. 'Missed check-in deadline' - Online check-in closes 90 mins before domestic and 2 hours before international flights; proceed to airport counters if missed.