South African travellers will soon have three new direct flight routes to look forward to, connecting the country more easily with Spain, Mozambique, and Zanzibar.
The new routes mark a boost in air connectivity as airlines respond to a surge in travel demand, expanding tourism, and growing trade links across Africa and Europe.
The biggest addition will be Air Europa’s new direct route between South Africa and Spain. The Spanish carrier has secured approval to operate three flights a week between the two countries, with final regulatory clearances still underway before the service officially launches.
Six more weekly slots remain available for other airlines, though Air Europa holds first priority should others express interest in the route, as per Business Tech.
Currently, South Africans flying to Spain must connect through hubs such as Dubai, Doha, Amsterdam or Addis Ababa. The introduction of a nonstop route is expected to save travellers hours in transit and simplify the journey for both leisure and business purposes.
Travel expert Carla Vickers believes the route will open new doors for tourism and corporate travel alike. She also noted that it could indirectly make travel to Portugal easier, thanks to Spain’s close proximity and well-connected transport networks.
However, she cautioned that ticket prices will play a decisive role, saying affordable fares will be key to making direct travel a viable option for South Africans who often shop around for the best deals.
Regionally, Airlink is broadening its network with a new twice-weekly service between Johannesburg and Nacala, Mozambique, beginning 2 February 2026. Nacala, a vital port city in Mozambique’s northeast, will become Airlink’s seventh destination in the country, joining Maputo, Beira, Nampula, Pemba, Tete, and Vilanculos.
Flights will operate on Mondays and Fridays, departing Johannesburg mid-morning and returning later the same day. Airlink CEO De Villiers Engelbrecht said the new route will enhance both travel and trade, offering better access to a region of rising economic and tourism potential. The airline will deploy its Embraer regional jets on the route, known for their quieter operation and efficiency on short-haul flights.
Airlink is also preparing to launch a new leisure route from Johannesburg to Zanzibar in June 2026, operated by its latest aircraft addition, the Embraer E195-E2. The next-generation jet promises lower fuel consumption, reduced emissions, and an upgraded in-flight experience. Tickets for the new route are already on sale, with the island destination expected to attract South African holidaymakers looking for quick, tropical getaways.
Meanwhile, German leisure airline Condor is extending its seasonal Frankfurt–Cape Town flights by an extra month, with the service now running until 22 May 2026. The move reflects continued strong demand from European tourists seeking South African sunshine well into spring and aligns with a growing trend among airlines to stretch their seasonal schedules.
The introduction of these new routes marks another milestone for South Africa’s aviation sector, strengthening its position as a key travel hub for both African and international destinations.
First published by Cape {town} etc
Compiled by Aiden Daries
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