From 29th October British Airways will introduce a new route to South Africa, the airline is starting a direct service to Durban on one f the carriers new 787 aircraft.
The service will be the only non-stop link between Europe and Durban and flights will have a morning arrival in Durban and an evening arrival into Heathrow. The new route is part of the carriers £4.5 billion, five-year customer investment plan, which will see the airline adopted a more 'low-cost' for its economy passengers and a greatly increased premium offering, with a focus on excellence.
Durban has hot sultry summers and rather mild and dry winters which makes it an ideal destination all year long. It has long since been a popular destination for holidaying South Africans as well as those from around the region. It is also considered a much safer destination when compared to Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Alex Cruz, British Airways’ Chairman and CEO, said: “Durban’s warm water, hot summers and laid-back beachy atmosphere make this coastal city the perfect holiday destination. It is a gateway to many nature reserves, parks and historic sites, and has a thriving food, drink and art scene; defining the city as a must-visit for culture and adventure.
“Durban is also home to the busiest port in South Africa and is a large manufacturing hub, so the new route will secure another important link between the UK and the region that will be a welcome addition for business travellers.”
Sihle Zikalala, Minister for the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, said: “We are proud to be able to showcase the city of Durban to the world through this new British Airways direct flight, the sheer diversity in travel and business opportunities that visitors can access through this gateway into the province of KwaZulu-Natal will unlock enormous potential.
“Great Britain and KwaZulu-Natal share a very rich history, and we are excited to be able to rekindle that relationship with the launch of this new route. The investment and trade opportunities presented by this direct flight between Durban and London will undoubtedly add value to our economy.”
The UK carrier already has a number of established services to South Africa, two daily services from Heathrow to Johannesburg and flies year-round to Cape Town every day from Heathrow as well as three times a week from Gatwick during the winter season.
Tickets for the new Durban service start from £599 in World Traveller (economy cabin), £1214 in World Traveller Plus (premium economy) and £3199 in Club World (business class).
