Bad-mouthing South African Airways (SAA) has virtually become a national pastime – sometimes for very good reason. But I just had a GREAT experience on SAA and so, in fairness to our national airline, I decided to share it. After all, we love to complain but then we forget about compliments and commendations, don’t we?

I flew from Munich to Johannesburg in Business Class … and it was great. I’ve been lucky enough to have flown Business Class many times in my life (I kiss my Business Class seat each and every time because I abhor Economy Class; it’s pure torture). However this was by far my most enjoyable experience.

It was all thanks to the wonderful service of a staff member by the name of Sean Fourrie (I’m hoping that I have spelt his name correctly; I wasn’t wearing my glasses when I took a look at his badge!) From the time I arrived on the plane until the time I left, he took GREAT care of me.  He was kind, caring and most professional throughout the flight.

I had wonderful teenager sitting next to me and she received exactly the same treatment from Sean. The young girl and I chatted a lot. She told me that she’s a frequent Business Class flyer and she’s accustomed to receiving shoddy service. “It’s always clear that they don’t care about me because I’m a kid,” she told me.

Well, Sean did care. The delightful young lady received exactly the same service that I did – which was exemplary.

I skipped the dinner, having eaten in the lounge, but my fellow traveller noshed her food with relish. Breakfast was better than expected and Sean was happy to bring me as many cups of piping hot coffee as I desired.

Angus (sorry, I didn’t get his surname) was the purser on my flight … and he was awesome too.

SAA has its challenges – as we all know. Specific to business class, those include lie-flat seats that aren’t the best in class and a temperamental entertainment system. Also, champagne isn’t served (which truly saddens me greatly; our MCC just isn’t quite as good…!) However, people such as Sean and Angus can make a difference. And they certainly did for me.

Huge kudos to SAA!