The Communications Department is responsible for the internal and external communications for the airline. The goal is to ensure open communication between South African Airways and various publics.

Meaning "pathfinder" in Zulu (one of South Africa's major languages) Vulindlela is the name of South African Airways' latest community involvement project. A specially designed mobile information centre, fitted with an exhibition area and mock-up of an aircraft interior, has been dedicated by the airline on this project. It travels the country to bring the aviation industry, and career opportunities within South African Airways, to children who have yet to make a career decision. Volunteer staff give presentations on their jobs and also make the whole experience fun by running a "build a flying plane" competition using specially prepared materials.

More established community involvement projects include a series of seminars, which are presented in major centres, to assist fearful passengers in overcoming their anxiety about flying. In addition to a long term project designed to minimise bird strikes at South African airports, an engine run-up bay has been established at Johannesburg International. This deflects engine noise skywards during testings so as not to disturb residents in nearby suburbs.