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South African Airlines (SAA) exclusively operates from Terminal 4 at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). The terminal is connected to other terminals via the free AirTrain system. It offers all top-notch services, including check-in, baggage claim, transportation, lounges, and others for a smooth journey.
The guide below contains all essential information about the South African Airlines at JFK Terminal to ensure a seamless travel experience.
Overview of South African Airlines at John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
An overview of South African Airlines’ (SAA) operations at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is provided below, along with terminal information, phone numbers, and helpful links:
| Airport Name | John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) |
| Address | Queens, NY 11430, United States |
| Airline | South African Airlines (SAA) |
| IATA/ICAO Codes | SA/SAA |
| Terminal for Departures | Terminal 4 |
| Terminal for Arrivals | Terminal 4 |
| Check-In Location | Departures Level (Terminal 4) |
| South African Airlines Phone Number | +27 119782298 |
| Airport Contact Number | +17182444444 |
| Official Website | https://www.flysaa.com/ |
| https://twitter.com/flysaa | |
| https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA/ | |
| https://www.instagram.com/flysaa/ | |
| Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/user/flysaa100 |
| https://www.linkedin.com/company/flysaa |
Which Terminal is South African Airlines at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)?
South African Airlines (SAA) runs out of Terminal 4 at JFK for departures and arrivals. Below are the details of the departures and arrivals process at JFK:
South African Departures Terminal at JFK
Passengers flying out with SAA must head to the Departure Level at JFK Terminal 4:
- Check-In Counters: All SAA check-in desks are located within Terminal 4, Row 5, and they open at 7:30 AM. To avoid lengthy airport queues, online check-in is available 24 hours before each flight and will stay open for up to 2 hours before each overseas departure.
- Baggage Drop Off: Drop off your checked bags at the designated counters located near the check-in kiosk after checking in. Passengers may be required to pay for specific items or additional baggage. To find out more about the amount of luggage allowed on your flight, see South African Airlines’ baggage policy.
- Security Zone: South African Airways security screening is performed at Terminal 4’s Departures Level. There are several TSA lanes available to control passenger flow. Visit the JFK Airport Security Wait Time Guide for the most recent wait time information.
South African Arrivals Terminal at JFK
South African Airways (SAA) lands at Terminal 4 at JFK. There is clear signage at the entrance that directs travelers through baggage claim, customs, and immigration:
- Immigration and Customs: To finish the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) procedure, proceed to the immigration and customs section. This is situated in the arrivals area of the terminal.
- Baggage Claim: The baggage claim desk can be found in the arrivals hall of the Terminal, where you can collect your checked luggage. Go to the designated carousel and pick up checked luggage.
See our guide to Airlines at JFK for a complete list of airlines that operate out of Terminal 4.
Services at the South African Airlines Terminal in JFK Airport
South African Airlines JFK Terminal offers all essential services and amenities from check-in to transit options. The SAA JFK Terminal is equipped with everything, whether you are traveling in a group, using a wheelchair to go through the boarding process, or traveling with a baby.
Whether you’re seeking some local sweets, a quick bite, or some retail therapy, Terminal 4 has something for every taste and need.
All services and amenities offered at JFK Terminal 4 are included in the table below:
| Check-In Counters | Security Checkpoint |
| ATMs and Banks | Lost and Found Department |
| Baggage Services | Free Wi-Fi Connections |
| Meet & Greet Procedures | Currency Exchange Centres |
| Airport Transfers | Special Assistance |
| Restaurants & Cafes | Airport Lounge |
| Duty-free Stores & Shops | Medical Facilities |
| Airport Hotels | Airport Parking Facility |
| Ticket Reservation & Cancellation | Flight information counters |
| Luggage Carts | Portable Charging Points |
| Emergency Services | Self-Service Kiosks |
| Kids Play Area | Family Restrooms |
| Baby Care Rooms | Pet Travel Service |
Lounge Access for SAA Passengers at JFK
Although South African Airways (SAA) does not own a lounge at JFK, qualified travelers can take advantage of partner and Star Alliance lounges located in Terminal 4:
- Air India Maharaja Lounge
- HelloSky Lounge
- Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse
- Chase Sapphire Lounge and PrimeClass
These lounges are open to Star Alliance Gold members and Business Class travelers, and several lounges within the terminal are also open to Priority Pass holders. Unwind before flights and enjoy premium amenities at the airport.
Check out the list of all lounges at JFK.
Special Assistance at the South African Airlines Terminal at JFK
SAA provides attentive services for travelers who require extra assistance as the airline focuses on the health, comfort, and safety of passengers. A lot of these services require reservations.
- Wheelchair Assistance: From check-in to the boarding gate and from the plane to the arrivals hall at your destination, the airline can make arrangements for a wheelchair to be accessible. Inform the closest SAA office at least 48 hours before your departure to request a wheelchair at the airport.
- Service Dog: On the majority of South African Airways flights, a service dog (such as a guide dog) may fly in the passenger cabin for free. For approval, SAA Special Handling requires the necessary health certificates, immunization records, and permissions.
- Deaf Travelers: SAA provides captioned safety videos to help travelers with hearing impairments understand safety instructions. Staff give a personal safety briefing to anyone who requests one.
- Allergies: It is mandatory for passengers who have a peanut or other substance allergy to notify the reservations department. If you suffer from a severe allergy, you must bring your emergency medication.
Besides these facilities, it also offers assistance to pregnant women, oxygen and medical equipment, and colostomy bags.
Ground Transportation at the SAA Terminal of JFK
The AirTrain, taxis, automobile services, and shuttles are a few of the ground transportation options at JFK Terminal 4. The AirTrain offers complimentary connections between the Jamaica and Howard Beach stations as well as between all terminals.
Here is a complete list of all JFK Airport transportation options.
Map of South African Airlines Terminal at John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Below is an interactive map of South African Airlines’ JFK Terminal, which displays the lounges, departure gates, arrivals, services, and other locations to assist you in locating the services.
Whether you are a frequent traveler or a first-time tourist, bringing together crucial information can make your journey smooth and hassle-free. Traveling with South African Airlines out of Terminal 4 at John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK), SAA guarantees a comfortable and easy beginning to your trip with its flawless, first-rate lounges, baggage claim, and dedicated customer service.
FAQs
South African Airlines uses Terminal 4 for all international flight departures at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Travelers can check in online or at staffed counters in Terminal 1 at JFK Airport.
South African Airlines flights land at JFK Terminal 4. The terminal handles the arrival process, including baggage claim and customs of South African Airlines (SAA) at John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK).