South African Airways (SAA), a Skytrax 4-star rated airline, has been selected by the readers of Global Traveler as the “Best Airline in Africa” for the 16th consecutive year in the magazine’s annual reader survey. Global Traveler presented the award to SAA at a ceremony held on December 11, 2019 at The Peninsula Beverly Hills Hotel in California.

Each year, Global Traveler (GT) readers are polled on their travel preferences in its annual survey that recognizes the best in business travel, including airlines, hotels, airports, destinations and other travel related services. According to MediaMark Research (MRI), GT readers have an average net worth of $2 million and 50 percent are either CEO’s and business owners. Their readers average nine domestic flights per year and 93 percent travel internationally on a regular basis, flying primarily in First and Business Class. More than 55 percent stay in 4- and 5-star hotels, at an average of 60 nights per year.

“The readers of Global Traveler are true road warriors and impressing them is no easy feat, given their extensive travel to all corners of the globe,” said Todd Neuman, executive vice president, North America for South African Airways. “We are very honored to be named their favorite airline to the African continent, for 16 years in a row. This award is also a reflection of the dedicated commitment by SAA employees to continue earning their business by offering world-class service on our flights between North America and Africa.”

“Travelers greatly value a consistent experience and product, and it’s clear with its 16th consecutive win, South African Airways delivers just that to savvy travelers around the globe,” said Francis X. Gallagher, publisher and CEO. “Congratulations to the Best Airline in Africa for another year of award-winning service!”