Airline

South African Express (VD)

South African Express was a key regional airline providing vital connections between major South African hubs and smaller cities across Southern Africa. Operating a reliable fleet of Bombardier aircraft, it provided seamless travel in close partnership with South African Airways.

Why travelers choose South African Express

  • Baggage-first fares and transparent change rules.
  • Modern fleet mix with attentive on-board service.
  • Strong IRROPS handling with quick local support.

Fare families

Saver

A budget-friendly option for travelers with confirmed, fixed plans who don't require flexibility.

  • 1 Cabin bag (7kg)
  • 1 Checked bag (20kg)
  • Non-refundable
  • Flight changes permitted with a fee

Standard

A balanced fare offering great value with added flexibility for unpredictable travel schedules.

  • 1 Cabin bag (7kg)
  • 1 Checked bag (20kg)
  • Flight changes permitted at a reduced fee
  • Standard seat selection
  • SAA Voyager miles accrual

Fully Flexible

Maximum convenience and peace of mind, designed specifically for business and dynamic travelers.

  • 1 Cabin bag (7kg)
  • 1 Checked bag (20kg)
  • Free flight changes
  • Fully refundable cancellations
  • Priority check-in and boarding

Key policies

Baggage allowance

Passengers were typically allowed 1 piece of checked baggage up to 20kg (44 lbs), plus 1 piece of cabin baggage weighing up to 7kg (15 lbs) with standard dimensions.

Change policy

Ticket flexibility varied by fare class. Premium and flexible fares allowed free changes, while standard and promotional fares incurred change fees plus any applicable fare differences.

Check-in

Airport check-in counters generally opened 2 hours prior to departure, closing 45 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before regional international flights.

Search VD flights

Colombo (CMB) network

South African Express operating flights touching CMB

Sample operating pattern; confirm exact days and times during booking.

See live availability

From Colombo (CMB)

CMB → DXB

Flight VD 203 • Daily

4h 15m
08:55 → 12:10 Nonstop, morning departure

CMB → SIN

Flight VD 468 • Daily

4h 30m
10:45 → 17:45 Nonstop, widebody

CMB → LHR

Flight VD 503 • Mon / Wed / Fri

11h 15m
13:10 → 20:25 1 stop via hub

To Colombo (CMB)

DXB → CMB

Flight VD 204 • Daily

4h 15m
14:20 → 20:35 Nonstop, evening arrival

SIN → CMB

Flight VD 469 • Daily

3h 40m
19:20 → 21:00 Nonstop, premium-heavy

LHR → CMB

Flight VD 504 • Tue / Thu / Sat

10h 45m
21:55 → 12:40+1 1 stop via hub