South Africa: South African Airways adjusts service to Blantyre (Malawi) until October 31

Event

South African Airways (SAA) announced adjusted flight plans between Blantyre (Malawi) and Johannesburg on Friday, August 23, due to maintenance work and repairs on the main runway at Chileka International Airport (BLZ). Alternative travel plans will be in effect from Saturday, August 31, through Thursday, October 31. The main runway has been closed since April 24, forcing larger aircraft to divert to Kamuzu International Airport (LLW) in the capital Lilongwe (Central region) while smaller planes are still able to use the secondary runway. Travelers will fly to LLW before transferring to flights operated by Ethiopian Airlines to BLZ. Other airlines may also experience similar service disruptions to BLZ during the maintenance period.

Advice

Potentially impacted travelers are advised to keep abreast of the situation, anticipate flight disruptions (e.g. diversions, cancelations, etc.), and to contact their airline for additional information.