Reviving air travel in South Africa is key to a success recovery of tourism after an economically crippling COVID-19 lockdown. Airlines across Africa have run into major financial difficulties directly attributable to the impact of the pandemic. Major airlines affected severely include SAA, Comair, Air Mauritius and SA Express.
Action is required and it is so refreshing to see that a privately owned South African airline, Airlink, continue to expand in their drive to connect Southern Africa. The company recently announced an interline agreement, extending Emirates’ reach into Southern Africa as countries begin opening their borders to international travellers. Agents will be able to issue a single ticket for inbound travel from Dubai to Cape Town or Johannesburg. Tourists will then be able to link domestically to 25 regions in South Africa and a further 20 across Southern Africa, without touching their baggage.
Airlink has also signed a similar contract with Qatar Airways.
The company offers travellers seamless connectivity all the time expanding their network of new routes. It is already in the process of linking Johannesburg and Cape Town to Windhoek as well offering a direct transfer between Johannesburg and Walvis Bay shortly. Beaches will also be closer than ever as the company plans to soon offer transfers from Johannesburg to Pemba, Vilanculos and Beira.
The company have also removed the usual travel panic with a single set of requirements. These and valued added benefits include: 20kg checked-in luggage in economy class and 30kg in business class, onboard catering, more leg room, choice of aisle or window seat (no middle seat), as well as a 15kg sporting equipment allowance.
Please also consider the company’s COVID-19 procedures and safety tips:
