The new routes include key domestic additions such as Johannesburg to George and Cape Town to Durban, alongside important regional services including Johannesburg to Gaborone (Botswana) and Cape Town to Mauritius.
These route expansions come as part of SAA’s broader growth strategy, aiming to reestablish its presence across Southern Africa and position itself as a competitive player in the global aviation market. The expansion is also seen as a strategic move to facilitate stronger economic, tourism, and cultural links between South Africa and neighboring countries.
Domestic Route Development: Enhancing Connectivity Across South Africa
As of the latest updates, South African Airways has confirmed three major domestic routes:
Johannesburg to George – Launching April 2026
The route connecting Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport to George in the Western Cape is slated for launch in April 2026. This service is expected to improve accessibility to the Garden Route, one of South Africa’s most scenic travel corridors and a top destination for both local and international tourists. By offering direct access from the country’s commercial capital, SAA hopes to capitalize on the rising demand for leisure travel and open new opportunities for business tourism in the Western Cape.
Johannesburg to East London – Launch Date To Be Confirmed
East London, a major city in the Eastern Cape, has long been underserved in terms of direct air connectivity from Johannesburg. SAA’s announcement to introduce this route highlights the airline’s intention to promote economic inclusivity and regional development. East London is home to key industries such as automotive manufacturing, agriculture, and port operations. Improved air access could help revitalize trade flows and stimulate tourism in the province.
Cape Town to Durban – Launch Date To Be Confirmed
This planned route between two major South African metros—Cape Town and Durban—has long been requested by frequent travelers, particularly in the business and leisure sectors. Once launched, it will serve as a vital east-west link, enabling faster intercity movement and alleviating pressure on ground transport infrastructure. Cape Town, known for its tourism appeal, and Durban, with its ports and economic activity, are expected to benefit mutually from improved air access.
Regional Expansion: Connecting Southern Africa’s Key Markets
SAA’s regional expansion strategy reflects its focus on solidifying its position in Southern Africa and enhancing intra-African connectivity—a key goal under the African Union’s Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).
Johannesburg to Gaborone (Botswana) – Launching October 2025
Scheduled to launch in October 2025, the Johannesburg-Gaborone route reintroduces a vital air link between South Africa and Botswana. Botswana is one of South Africa’s top trading partners in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and is also a growing tourism market, thanks to attractions like the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. This direct connection will benefit government officials, corporate travelers, and leisure tourists alike.
Cape Town to Mauritius – Seasonal Service Launching November 2025
South African Airways will launch seasonal flights between Cape Town and Mauritius starting in November 2025. With growing demand for outbound leisure travel and a sharp rebound in post-pandemic holiday bookings, this route caters to South Africans seeking tropical beach destinations. The seasonal nature allows flexibility in resource allocation while capitalizing on peak travel periods. Mauritius, in return, benefits from increased tourist arrivals and spending from the South African market.
Long-Haul Ambitions: Resuming Intercontinental Travel
In line with its global growth strategy, SAA has also reiterated plans to resume intercontinental flights in 2026. While the new regional and domestic routes aim to stabilize operations, the long-term vision includes direct services to:
- Mumbai, India
- Guangzhou, China (via Southeast Asia)
These two major Asian economic hubs are central to South Africa’s BRICS partnerships and international trade. Restarting flights to these cities will help restore SAA’s global relevance while improving export-import logistics, diaspora travel, and diplomatic exchange.
Strategic Relevance of Route Expansion
The new route announcements are more than just an operational update—they form a central pillar in SAA’s strategy to become a commercially sustainable airline. After years of financial instability, restructuring, and the impact of COVID-19, the airline is working with the Department of Public Enterprises and other stakeholders to implement a route map driven by market demand and regional development goals.
According to SAA, the expanded network is designed to:
- Align with South Africa’s National Tourism Sector Strategy (NTSS 2016–2026) by improving accessibility to key tourism hubs.
- Support SADC regional integration by offering more efficient and affordable travel options between member states.
- Drive trade and investment by enabling faster movement of goods and business travelers between growth corridors.
- Strengthen Cape Town and Durban’s aviation potential, complementing Johannesburg as a primary hub.
Statements from SAA Leadership
Speaking at the Africa’s Travel Indaba, SAA Chief Commercial Officer Tebogo Tsimane emphasized the importance of strategic connectivity:
“We are guided by data, partnerships, and a commitment to customer experience. Our new routes reflect market needs and our belief in aviation as a driver of regional development.”
He added that each new route was selected after in-depth analysis of passenger demand, tourism potential, and logistical viability.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the expansion is promising, it also comes with challenges such as competition from low-cost carriers, fluctuating fuel prices, and ensuring operational efficiency. Nevertheless, SAA’s return to strategic domestic and regional routes is expected to create:
- Job creation in aviation and hospitality sectors.
- Stronger airport performance in secondary cities.
- Enhanced tourism investment across the region.
Government entities such as the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) and the South African Tourism Board have pledged support through improved infrastructure, digital innovation, and collaborative promotions.
Booking and Further Information
For travelers and agents interested in the new routes, SAA encourages visiting their official portal, where updates on schedules, ticket sales, and pricing will be posted. The site also includes loyalty program details through Voyager and support for group bookings and travel agents.
Conclusion
South African Airways’ announcement of new domestic and regional routes marks a major milestone in its transformation journey. As the airline regains momentum, these developments reflect a commitment not only to profitability but also to South Africa’s broader goals of regional leadership, economic resilience, and sustainable tourism growth. Through a blend of domestic revival and regional outreach, SAA is helping to connect people, places, and possibilities—one flight at a time
Tags: South Africa’s National Tourism Sector Strategy (NTSS 2016–2026), Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) Tebogo Tsimane, South African Airways
