South African regional carrier Airlink is raising the bar in domestic and regional air travel, introducing a business-class product as part of its fleet expansion.
The airline has taken delivery of the first three of ten new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, leased from US-based lessor Azorra, with four more scheduled to arrive in 2026.
The handover took place at Embraer’s facility in São José dos Campos, Brazil, before the aircraft began its journey to Johannesburg via Cape Town.
Airlink expands fleet
Each of the newly delivered aircraft seats up to 136 passengers in a two-by-two cabin configuration, eliminating the unpopular middle seat. Twenty of those seats feature extra legroom, including rows at the front and overwing exits. Passengers can also expect added convenience with individual power outlets and personal service units at every seat.
Pending approval from the South African Civil Aviation Authority, the aircraft are expected to enter service by mid-December, just in time for the busy summer holiday season. The additional capacity will strengthen Airlink’s position on high-traffic routes such as Johannesburg–Cape Town.
But the biggest change is yet to come. Starting July 2026, Airlink will introduce staggered business-class seating on four new E2 aircraft – a first for South African skies.
“There is a lot of business-class demand on the Cape Town route and on regional routes,” Katherine Whelan, Airlink’s Chief Commercial Officer, told Travel News.
“Our second batch of aircraft will have staggered business class, offering 12 seats in total. It’s a new product for South Africa, and we’ll be using those aircraft more on regional routes and some on our Cape Town route as well.” Whelan added.
With this move, Airlink is positioning itself to capture premium travellers who have long sought more comfort and exclusivity on shorter flights, marking a major shift in how South African passengers experience regional air travel.
