Qatar Airways is increasing flights to South Africa to meet growing demand from travellers this summer, strengthening air connections between the country and the rest of the world.
The airline will up its weekly flights from 35 to 42 on key long-haul routes, offering more options for both business and leisure passengers.
More international flights from Qatar Airways
Under the updated schedule:
- Doha–Johannesburg increases from 18 to 21 weekly flights, effective 18 February 2026
- Doha–Cape Town rises from 12 to 14 flights weekly, effective 17 February
- Doha–Durban (via Maputo) goes from 5 to 7 flights weekly, effective 5 March
The expansion comes as international travel demand continues to pick up, particularly for routes linking Africa with Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas. Studies show that Middle East carriers have been among the fastest to recover capacity since the pandemic, reflecting strong passenger appetite.
For passengers flying between South Africa and key global markets, the added frequencies mean more frequent services and improved access to a wider global network.
Air Europa to fly South African route in 2026
In other international flight news, Spanish airline Air Europa will launch a new direct international flight between Madrid and Johannesburg starting 24 June, strengthening air links between South Africa and Europe.
The airline will operate three flights per week on the route using its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, which are configured for long-haul international travel.
According to the schedule, flights from Madrid will depart on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 15:05, arriving in Johannesburg at 01:10 the following day.
Return flights will then leave Johannesburg on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 03:10, arriving at Madrid’s Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport at 13:20.
