Planning flights from South Africa is looking easier than ever in 2026 as airlines add new direct services, extend seasonal flights and increase connections. If you’re planning a trip this year, expect fewer layovers and easier access to far-flung destinations.
“When airlines commit to a direct route, it means they’re betting on demand and investing in convenience,” says Sue Garrett, GM: Supply, Pricing & Marketing at Flight Centre South Africa. “These new connections are good news for travellers, and for tourism, trade, and the economy at large.”
Perth in Under 11 Hours: Qantas Connects Johannesburg
One of the most talked about additions to South Africa’s 2026 flight map is Qantas’ new direct Johannesburg to Perth service. Launched in December 2025, the route operates three times weekly and cuts journey times to under 11 hours, making Western Australia more accessible than ever for South Africans.
Whether you’re visiting family and friends, exploring the extraordinary coastline and national parks or chasing business opportunities, this route removes the hassle of stopovers and gives you more time to actually enjoy the destination. Qantas’ strong domestic network connects you to the rest of Australia and New Zealand too – an added bonus!
A Taste of South America: LATAM Links São Paulo and Cape Town
LATAM Airlines’ new São Paulo to Cape Town flights, launching in September 2026, mark the first direct link between South America and South Africa offered by a Latin carrier.
Travellers can now swap long layovers in Europe or the Middle East for direct access to Brazil, Argentina, and Peru. This route opens the door to Carnival and countless Amazonian adventures!
Mozambique’s Hidden Gem: Johannesburg to Nacala
Airlink’s Johannesburg to Nacala service, beginning in February 2026, shines a spotlight on Mozambique’s northeastern coast. Nacala, often overlooked, offers turquoise bays and access to the pristine Quirimbas Archipelago.
For travellers seeking a low-key, authentic island vibe without the crowds, Nacala is a welcome alternative. It’s ideal for water sports or simply relaxing in a quieter corner of southern Africa.
Island Escapes Reimagined: Durban to Réunion
Global Airways in partnership with Fly Vetiv’Air, begins Durban to Réunion flights from 26 February 2026. The route connects King Shaka International Airport with Saint Pierre Pierrefonds Airport.
The launch also reflects KwaZulu-Natal’s renewed focus on regional air access, with authorities viewing the route as a catalyst for tourism and trade revival. Beyond beaches, Réunion offers hiking trails, waterfalls, French-Creole cuisine, and an authentic island culture, all just a short flight away.
Paris in Every Season: Air France Extends Cape Town Route
Air France’s Cape Town to Paris flights, once seasonal, will now run through May 2026, giving South Africans a longer European travel window. Shoulder-season travel means lower fares, fewer crowds, and a chance to see Paris in bloom or explore the Burgundy wine region at a gentler pace.
“With this extended season, travellers can turn a quick city break into a shoulder-season adventure,” says Garrett. “France continues to deliver for South Africans who favour culture and food experiences.”
Madrid Meets Joburg: Air Europa Opens a New Gateway
Spanish carrier Air Europa will launch nonstop Johannesburg to Madrid flights from 24 June 2026, operating three times weekly on Boeing 787 Dreamliners. This direct link gives South Africans easy access to Spain’s vibrant capital and onward European connections, from Lisbon to Morocco and the Canary Islands. It is also poised to boost trade and business ties between South Africa and Spain.
Other Routes to Watch
2026 is also seeing exciting expansions across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa:
- Middle East: Emirates is adding a third daily flight to Dubai from Cape Town, while Saudia is exploring a Jeddah to Cape Town service.
- Asia: Singapore Airlines is studying a Durban to Singapore route, and Cathay Pacific could reinstate Johannesburg to Hong Kong flights as demand rebounds.
- Africa: Kenya Airways, RwandAir, and Ethiopian Airlines are expanding their regional networks, making destinations like Kigali, Zanzibar, and Addis Ababa easier to reach.
Additionally, seasonal routes to Mauritius and increased European connections through partner carriers are giving South Africans even more flexibility when planning their trips.
What It Means for South African Travellers
This wave of new routes is not just about timetables; it is about freedom. Shorter flights, fewer layovers, and smarter connections mean more time on the ground and less in the air.
“Direct routes give travellers precious time back,” Garrett says. “When you save a full travel day each way, that’s time you can spend exploring, working, or simply unwinding at your destination.”
With each new route, layovers shrink and possibilities expand. From Perth to Paris, São Paulo to Réunion, 2026 proves that the world is no longer somewhere out there. It is right here, waiting, one boarding pass away.
