South African Airways (SAA) is planning to introduce the latest generation and modern Airbus A350-900 on its nonstop service between Johannesburg and New York JFK.

The A350 boast fuel-efficiency and other benefits and advantages. It presents an opportunity for SAA to reduce fuel burn by approximately 20% compared to the A340 currently on that route.

The aircraft will operate on one of SAA’s ultra-long haul routes between Johannesburg and New York JFK, replacing the A340-600 on this route and will still be operated on a nonstop basis.

The Airbus A350-900 offers high levels of customer and crew comfort combined with excellent economics for ultra-long-haul flights. It also offers a modern In-flight Entertainment (IFE) system.

SAA will take delivery of the aircraft in the second half of 2019. The aircraft will be operational in SAA’s branding as soon as SAA has met the regulatory authority requirements.