South African Airways (SAA) has announced that a recent government proclamation does not initiate a new investigation but expands an existing corruption probe by the State Investigative Unit (SIU) to include its maintenance division, South African Airways Technical (SAAT). The amendment, issued in December 2025, broadens the scope of the investigation to cover procurement, operational, and governance issues within the airline group, extending the period under review to 2002.
The airline explained that the proclamation adjusts a 2020 investigation rather than launching a new one. This allows the SIU to continue its work and pursue civil litigation as needed, without revisiting previously completed investigations. The expanded scope reportedly includes supply chain irregularities concerning cabin crew transportation at various outstations and scrutinizes potential undisclosed interests among personnel and third parties.
The government highlighted that the amended proclamation authorizes investigation into unlawful conduct and interests involving the airline's personnel, vendors, and third parties, with the review period now ending on December 19, 2025. South African Airways expressed its full cooperation with the SIU and relevant authorities, emphasizing its commitment to transparency and accountability amid the ongoing inquiry. Findings indicative of criminal activity will be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority, while civil recovery efforts may follow through the courts.
