Upcoming Aviation Expansions: South Africa's Growing International Connectivity

The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) is advancing its vision of expanding international connectivity at its major airports: O.R. Tambo International, Cape Town International, and King Shaka International. These strategic hubs are expected to accommodate new international routes, aiming to strengthen South Africa’s role as a key player in global aviation, particularly in Africa.

As part of the growing developments in South African aviation, South African Airways (SAA) will increase its weekly flights between Johannesburg and Harare from 10 to 12, starting on November 5th, 2024. This move is part of SAA’s ongoing efforts to enhance regional connectivity, especially in southern Africa, reflecting the increasing demand for travel between these two important economic centers.

In addition to SAA’s expansion, Airlink has been rapidly increasing its international footprint. The regional carrier recently introduced daily flights between O.R. Tambo International Airport and Beira International Airport in Mozambique, providing a vital connection between Johannesburg and Mozambique’s economic hub. This new route is expected to support trade, tourism, and business activities between the two countries.

Airlink has also launched a new route from Johannesburg to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, reinforcing its presence in East Africa. With Tanzania being a popular destination for tourism, especially to sites like Mount Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti, the new route aims to serve both leisure and business travelers, further strengthening the ties between South Africa and Tanzania.

These developments highlight the growth of aviation in South Africa, driven by strategic airline expansions and ACSA’s ambitious plans to accommodate new international routes. As South Africa continues to improve its connectivity across Africa and beyond, it is poised to play a more significant role in regional and global air travel.