LGBT+ Turismo Expo: Kadu Lucas highlights the recovery and unprecedented proximity between Brazil and South Africa

"I've been with South African for 23 years, half the time the company has been in Brazil," he says. He started in aviation at the former VASP and worked his way through all sectors until he reached the commercial and marketing leadership.

SAA has operated in the country since 1964 and once operated up to 11 weekly flights. After a period of suspension during the pandemic, the airline celebrates its return with a historic innovation: direct flights from São Paulo to Cape Town—a first-ever nonstop destination, in addition to the traditional route to Johannesburg. "Brazil has never been as close to Africa as it is now," says Kadu Lucas.

New fleet and premium experience

One of the distinguishing features of the recovery is the investment in a modern fleet and in onboard service. "Today we fly the A330-300, a brand-new 2018 aircraft. We want passengers to feel the South African warmth from the moment they're on board," he says.

Even on short routes within South Africa, SAA maintains its tradition of offering hot meals—a rarity in the industry. In Business Class, every seat converts into a bed with direct aisle access. "There are three stages of service, whether in Economy or Business Class. We want to deliver this premium experience in every detail," reinforces the executive.

More than an airline: an ambassador

For Kadu Lucas, SAA goes beyond simply transporting passengers—it's a living showcase for the destination. "We're a flagship airline; more than just transporting passengers, we're ambassadors for South Africa," he emphasizes. The partnership with the Tourism Board is close, as is the in-flight magazine Saubona, which publishes monthly news about destinations and, this month, includes a special feature on Brazil.

Strategic partnerships to shorten distances

Brazil's geographic location makes it a natural bridge between Africa and the Americas. "We have major partners like Gol, Latam, and Avianca. Passengers come from Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Colombia, the United States, and Canada to embark from here on their way to South Africa," explains Kadu.

In this scenario, working with travel agents is a priority. "It's still a destination that needs to be better known. That's why we're investing heavily in B2B," he says. New routes, such as the flight to India, are also on the radar, but await the arrival of new aircraft.

Shorter connection, richer experience

With direct flights from São Paulo to Johannesburg on Mondays and Thursdays, and to Cape Town on Tuesdays and Saturdays, South African Airways is reclaiming its leading role on the Brazil-Africa route, bringing cultures and opportunities closer together.

"Our role is to ensure that every passenger feels this closeness, from boarding to arrival. Brazil has never been so connected to South Africa—and this is just the beginning," concludes Kadu Lucas.

The 4th LGBT+ Tourism Expo was held on July 24th, at the Hotel Unique, in São Paulo.

Report and photo: Mary de Aquino.