Travellers in the Western Cape will soon be able to swap Cape Town’s coastline for Zanzibar’s spice-scented shores without a stopover in Johannesburg.
Image used for illustrative purposes/Zanzibar/Dmitry Limonov/Unsplash
South African carrier Airlink has announced the launch of the first-ever non-stop flights between Cape Town and Zanzibar, with the new route set to take off in October 2026.
The weekly service will operate every Saturday from 3 October using Airlink’s new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, cutting out the need for connecting flights and making the Indian Ocean island more accessible to Cape Town-based travellers.
Known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and rich cultural history, Zanzibar has become one of East Africa’s fastest-growing leisure destinations. The island is also home to Stone Town, the UNESCO-listed historic quarter famed for its winding alleys, carved wooden doors and centuries-old links to the spice trade.
The launch marks Airlink’s second Zanzibar route and follows the airline’s Johannesburg-Zanzibar service, which is scheduled to begin operating in June 2026.
According to Airlink CEO de Villiers Engelbrecht, the new route is aimed at improving direct access to the island for both holidaymakers and international connecting passengers travelling through Cape Town.
“The introduction of our new flagship aircraft, the E195-E2, with its innovative business class and comfortable economy seats, enables Airlink to bring destinations such as Zanzibar within convenient non-stop reach of Cape Town,” Engelbrecht said.
The flight time is expected to be just over six hours, with schedules designed to suit leisure travellers by avoiding overnight departures and arrivals.
Airlink’s new E195-E2 aircraft will carry 124 passengers in a two-class cabin layout. The airline says passengers can expect complimentary meals and refreshments, generous legroom and no middle seats onboard.
Travellers will also receive a free luggage allowance, with discounted economy passengers entitled to 20kg checked baggage and a 15kg sporting equipment allowance.
Beyond its tourism appeal, Zanzibar is also drawing growing business interest thanks to expanding sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, marine services and offshore energy exploration. Easier visa processes, including online applications and visas on arrival, have also helped boost the island’s popularity.
Flights will depart Cape Town at 08:15 on Saturdays, arriving in Zanzibar at 14:30 local time. The return service leaves Zanzibar at 15:30 and lands in Cape Town at 20:50.
Bookings for the new route are now open.
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