Durban’s direct flights to growing number of destinations

King Shaka International Airport connects Durban to more of Africa and the world, with additional direct flights.

Durban’s King Shaka International Airport now offers flights to more destinations outside the country.

This is good news for South Africans and international visitors.

MORE FLIGHTS TO AND FROM DURBAN

Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) reports that King Shaka International Airport now offers more cross-border flights to and from Durban.

Air Botswana has introduced three flights per week, between Durban and Gaborone.

Flights operate on Fridays, Sundays and Wednesdays.

In addition, services between Durban and Lusaka have been increased to two frequencies per week.

Proflight Zambia operates these flights on Fridays and Mondays.

Furthermore, services between Durban and Harare have also increased to seven times a week.

Airlink operates daily scheduled flights from the coastal city to Harare.

IMPROVED DURBAN CONNECTIVITY

In fact, these flight services mark a milestone in King Shaka International Airport’s journey to rebuild passenger volumes in the post-pandemic period.

Cape Town and Johannesburg airports have been seeing increased passenger numbers but Durban has been slower to see a return to pre-pandemic levels.

Acsa reports that Durban’s international traffic achieved 2.6% year-on-year growth in 2024 and an overall 79% recovery compared with pre-Covid levels.

Acsa also says that the enhanced services will help to rebuild air connectivity within the Southern African region.

INTERNATIONAL LONG-HAUL ROUTES

Currently, Emirates Airlines offers flights carrying long-haul passengers to and from Durban.

IOL states that Emirates Airlines is a cornerstone of international travel, operating daily frequencies into Durban.

Emirates Airlines also flies into Johannesburg and Cape Town, bringing in passengers via its Dubai hub.

The airline offers an extensive global route network.

Additionally, three hotels located on the Durban beachfront are set for major revamps, with capital investments of up to R1 billion.

The city is attempting to draw guests back, by investing in the beachfront and other nearby properties.

Extra flights into Durban are set to grow international passenger traffic to KwaZulu-Natal.

REBUILDING DURBAN’S AIR CONNECTIVITY

Acsa’s Regional General Manager, Nkosinathi Myataza, is confident and enthusiastic about the increased flight connectivity for Durban.

“These new routes and expanded frequencies are a testament to the hard work of our team and partners in recovering and growing air connectivity. We are committed to providing world-class services and fostering economic growth in our region,” Myataza said.

Will you be flying to Durban over the summer holidays?

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