Suid-Afrikaanse Lugdiens - Backpack

South African Airways was formed on 1 February 1934 following the acquisition of Union Airways by the South African government. The airline was initially overseen and controlled by South African Railways and Harbours Administration. During this time, it was also known by its Afrikaans name, Suid-Afrikaanse Lugdiens (SAL, "South African Air Service"). In 1997, SAA replaced the Springbok emblem and the old national colours of orange, white and blue with a new livery based upon the new national flag, with a sun motif. The airline's name on its aircraft retained the Afrikaans name Suid-Afrikaanse Lugdiens.