South African Airways Museum Johannesburg
Step back in time at the South African Airways Museum, home to iconic Boeing 747s and a treasure trove of SAA history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
South African Airways Museum Johannesburg
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the South African Airways Museum, home to iconic Boeing 747s and a treasure trove of SAA history.
"Marvel at the preserved Boeing 747s and explore a rich collection of SAA memorabilia."
🎯 Affordable Entry Fee
Enjoy a fascinating aviation history lesson for just R50 (adults) and R30 (children).
✈️ Static Aircraft Displays
Get up close to impressive static aircraft, including the legendary Boeing 747s.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Boeing 747s
Rand Airport, Germiston
Marvel at the preserved Boeing 747-244B, ZS-SAN "Lebombo," SAA's first 747, and another donated 747.
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SAA Memorabilia Collection
SAA Museum Society
Explore a treasure trove of SAA history, including photos, scale models, and artifacts from the airline's golden era.
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to SAA Museum
Getting to Rand Airport
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Affordable Entry Fee
Enjoy a fascinating aviation history lesson for just R50 (adults) and R30 (children).
✈️ Static Aircraft Displays
Get up close to impressive static aircraft, including the legendary Boeing 747s.
🕰️ Check Opening Hours
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 9 am to 3:30 pm. Plan your visit accordingly.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning shots of the vintage aircraft and historical displays.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Affordable Entry Fee
Enjoy a fascinating aviation history lesson for just R50 (adults) and R30 (children).
✈️ Static Aircraft Displays
Get up close to impressive static aircraft, including the legendary Boeing 747s.
🕰️ Check Opening Hours
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 9 am to 3:30 pm. Plan your visit accordingly.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning shots of the vintage aircraft and historical displays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the South African Airways Museum for its impressive collection of SAA memorabilia and the opportunity to see iconic Boeing 747s up close. The affordable entry fee makes it an accessible historical experience. Some visitors note that the museum is primarily focused on static displays and historical artifacts.
"A charmingly chaotic "museum" and storage space for memorabilia you'd otherwise probably find in Uncle Messi's garage: old brochures, crockery, advertisements, a few models, and that's it. Admission is cheap. But then, suddenly, a full-size 747 appears outside, unbarred, unpolished, just there. You're allowed in, sit in economy, and realize that flying used to be about as glamorous as riding a bus with wings. The cockpit is open to visitors, the cabins are open, and business class is cordoned off, as if secrets of the Mile High Club still lurked there. Plus, a Lockheed Constellation and other flying rarities, which you can also enter. For aircraft fans, this is a playground without an operating license... you can easily spend an hour and still feel like you've seen more than in many a glossy museum. Conclusion: Zero glamour, lots of heart, 5 out of 5 stars."
Tilman Benecke
"The lady have shown a very good and dedicated attitude on her work and patience she has shown when presenting for two group of schools was remarkable. She is super in her work .."
Teboho koae
"Enjoyed going back in time and view the history of SAA Airlines. Lots of old planes and 2 Boeings to walk through. Had a great time."
Joe Du Plessis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The South African Airways Museum Society is located at Rand Airport in Germiston, Johannesburg. While public transport options are not extensively detailed, ride-sharing services or driving are recommended. Parking is available at the airport.
Rand Airport is a well-established airport in Germiston, making it relatively easy to locate using GPS navigation. It's a key landmark in the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, between 9 am and 3:30 pm. It's closed on Mondays.
No booking is required for individual visitors. However, if you are planning a group visit, it's advisable to contact the museum in advance to make arrangements.
Admission is R50 for adults and R30 for children. This offers excellent value for exploring aviation history.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
You can explore a collection of South African Airways memorabilia, including photos and aircraft scale models. The museum also features static display aircraft, most notably two Boeing 747s.
Yes, the museum proudly houses two Boeing 747s, including the iconic ZS-SAN "Lebombo," which was SAA's first Boeing 747.
Absolutely! Aviation enthusiasts will find a wealth of historical information, aircraft models, and the chance to see iconic planes up close.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, allowing you to capture the impressive aircraft and memorabilia.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior views of the Boeing 747s, especially ZS-SAN "Lebombo," offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The museum's collection of memorabilia also provides interesting subjects.
While personal photography is usually allowed, it's always a good idea to check with museum staff on arrival for any specific guidelines or areas where photography might be restricted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With an affordable entry fee of R50 for adults and R30 for children, it's a budget-friendly option for a family day out. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, making it flexible for weekend plans. Encourage your children to imagine flying on these historic aircraft and ask questions about the different planes on display.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
+1The museum's collection of SAA memorabilia, such as photographs and scale models, provides deep insights into the airline's operational history and its place in aviation. It’s a chance to delve into the details of SAA's fleet and its contribution to air travel. The static displays offer excellent opportunities for detailed photography and study.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Boeing 747 at SAA Museum
These magnificent aircraft, donated to the museum in 2004 and 2006, offer visitors a tangible connection to a bygone era of aviation. Standing beside these giants allows you to appreciate their scale and imagine the journeys they once undertook. It's a truly awe-inspiring experience for any aviation enthusiast.
Visiting the museum provides a unique opportunity to see these historical giants preserved, offering insights into the engineering marvels and the operational history of South African Airways. It’s a chance to step back in time and appreciate the impact of the 747 on global air travel and SAA's role in it.
Exploring SAA's Rich Memorabilia
Complementing the photographs are meticulously crafted aircraft scale models, providing a detailed look at various aircraft that have been part of the SAA fleet over the decades. These models, alongside other artifacts, contribute to a rich narrative of the airline's evolution and its significance in South African history. The collection aims to preserve and showcase the heritage and achievements of one of Africa's most prominent airlines.
This curated collection serves as a valuable resource for understanding the operational, cultural, and economic impact of South African Airways. It’s an opportunity to connect with the stories and people behind the airline, making the museum visit a deeply engaging experience for those interested in aviation history and South African heritage.
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