South Africa’s air travel map is set to expand in 2026, with several new international and regional flight routes scheduled to launch.
Airlines are adding long-haul connections to Europe and South America, as well as shorter routes across Africa and nearby islands.
For travellers, this means more direct options, fewer stopovers, and better access to popular leisure and business destinations. Here’s a look at the confirmed and widely reported new flight routes starting from South Africa in 2026.
Direct flights from South Africa to Europe
One of the biggest developments for 2026 is a new direct connection between South Africa and Spain.
Spanish airline Air Europa is expected to launch direct flights between Johannesburg and Madrid from June 2026. This route adds another major European gateway for South African travellers, with easy onward connections to Spain, Portugal, and the rest of Europe.
Madrid also becomes an alternative to traditional hubs like London, Paris, and Amsterdam, which could help spread demand and improve pricing options.
South America gets its first direct link to Cape Town
In a major milestone, LATAM Airlines plans to start direct flights between Cape Town and São Paulo in September 2026. This will be the first regular direct air service between South Africa and South America.
The route is expected to boost tourism in both directions and improve business and trade links between Brazil and South Africa. For leisure travellers, it also opens easier access to the rest of Latin America via São Paulo.
New leisure routes within Africa
Several new routes launching in 2026 are specifically targeting the leisure market, particularly island and coastal destinations.
Johannesburg to Zanzibar
Regional carrier Airlink is expected to introduce direct flights from Johannesburg to Zanzibar around mid-2026. Zanzibar still remains one of East Africa’s most popular holiday destinations, known for its beaches, resorts, and historic Stone Town.
Durban to Réunion Island
From February 2026, Global Airways, in partnership with Fly Vetiv’Air, will launch direct flights between Durban and Réunion Island. This new route will strengthen travel links between KwaZulu-Natal and the Indian Ocean islands and give Durban travellers a new tropical holiday option without transiting through Johannesburg.
Expanded regional connectivity
Johannesburg to Nacala (Mozambique)
Airlink is also expected to add a new route between Johannesburg and Nacala in northern Mozambique in 2026. This route supports both tourism and business travel, particularly linked to port and energy projects in the region.
Johannesburg to Nairobi
Plans have also been announced for expanded direct services between Johannesburg and Nairobi in 2026, improving connectivity between two of Africa’s biggest aviation hubs.
