37th Festuris: Gabriel Gomes, Country Manager of South African Airways in Brazil, reveals expansion plans and bets on the strength of the Brazilian market

High season drives increased flights, according to Gabriel Gomes, country manager of South African Airways (SAA) in Brazil, who stated that the company is optimistic about the Brazilian market. During Festuris, in Gramado (RS), he highlighted that the high season, from November to February, is accompanied by an increase in flight frequencies.
“Currently we operate four weekly flights, and from December 10th we will increase to six, four to Johannesburg and two to Cape Town,” explained Gomes.

The expectation is that the strong performance will lead to the maintenance and even expansion of operations next year. "We are working with headquarters to maintain these frequencies and, who knows, achieve daily operations in Brazil," he added.

Global expansion of the company

With 90 years of history, South African Airways is experiencing a new chapter. After a restructuring process over the last five years, the company is once again consolidating itself as an international airline.
"Brazil was the first long-haul market to be reopened in this new cycle for the company," highlighted Gomes. In addition to routes to Brazil and Australia, SAA intends to resume flights to Asia, with connections to China, India, and Thailand, and strengthen its presence within the African continent, in destinations such as Kenya, Mozambique, and Angola.

According to the executive, growth has been conducted cautiously. "We are making targeted and conscious expansions. We want to grow in a solid and sustainable way, always with the market responding accordingly," he stated.

Business structure and strategies in South America

Gomes also detailed SAA's structure in the region. "Currently, I am responsible for Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay, with the support of our sales and marketing manager, Kadu Lucas, and GSA Discover the World, which represents us in those countries," he explained.

The executive highlighted the strategic role of the indirect channel in sales. “Today we depend heavily on operators, agencies, and consolidators. They are the ones who bridge the gap with the end customer,” he noted.
For the coming years, the focus will be on strengthening the direct channel, offering conveniences to the Brazilian consumer, such as the possibility of installment payments on the company's website. “We want to balance the two channels and offer the best possible experience to the passenger,” said Gomes.

South Africa wins over Brazilian travelers.

When it comes to destinations, Gomes' enthusiasm is evident. "I'm biased, but South Africa is a fantastic destination," he stated. According to him, the country has a unique combination of nature, culture, gastronomy, and experiences that cater to different types of travelers.

The executive emphasized that the destination appeals to those seeking safaris and adventure tourism as well as those who prefer wineries, beaches, and high-end gastronomy. "Tourists can start in Johannesburg, visit Kruger Park, then head to Cape Town, visit wineries and beaches, and return to Brazil via the other airport," he explained.

In addition to the diverse experiences, Gomes highlights the cost-benefit ratio. “Today the real is worth about three rands. This makes South Africa a more accessible option compared to traditional destinations like the United States and Europe. It's a stunning and captivating destination,” he assured.

Solid restructuring and a focus on sustainable growth.

Concluding the interview, Gomes emphasized SAA's positive momentum and the company's commitment to gradual and sustainable growth. "There's no point in growing quickly without security. What's important is building a solid foundation, with positive financial results and passenger confidence," he stated.

With new routes, increased frequencies, and an ever more connected operation, South African Airways is reinforcing its global presence and reaffirming the importance of the Brazilian market in its expansion strategy.

The Festuris festival took place between November 6th and 9th at Serra Park in Gramado (RS), highlighting the theme "Reimagining Tomorrow".

Reporting and photo: Mary de Aquino.