SAA has appointed Discover the World (DTW) as its GSA in North America.

The partnership is expected to see the airline grow revenue across North America by raising awareness with more trade and corporate partners.

SAA CEO, Professor John Lamola said the move was part of the airline's long-term growth strategy. He said activating the partnership with DTW was another strong sign that the airline was regaining its international stature.

"SAA is pleased to once again be able to welcome our valued travellers from North America. We look forward to treating them to the warm South African hospitality that we are celebrated for," said Lamola.

Aiden Walsh, Head of Airline Development at DTW, said: "We are delighted to grow our partnership with SAA to cover the North American markets.  Our excellent sales and marketing teams in both the USA and Canada will be focusing on reintroducing the fantastic SAA Brand to our trade partners.  Discover the World already represents SAA in the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland and Germany."