The national carrier said it is cancelling 162 flights between 17 March and 31 March 2020. Of these, 38 are international and 124 are regional (destinations on the African continent) flights, read the statement.

"Notwithstanding the decline in demand, SAA continues to aggressively review its schedule to match capacity with demand to the extent possible. Where feasible, we will consider options that include cancelling and merging flights.

The airline said it would continue to operate flights for passengers who's travel was essential and "cannot be avoided."

SAA is also giving one free ticket change to customers who will have to change their travel plans due to the travel ban announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday.

Meanwhile, the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in South Africa is now 116.

eNCA