Cape Town’s global reach is set to expand once again as Cape Town Air Access, powered by Wesgro, celebrates LATAM Airlines’ announcement of a brand-new direct route linking São Paulo (GRU) with Cape Town (CPT).
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The service, which takes to the skies in September 2026, will operate three times a week, making LATAM the first South American carrier to fly directly into the Mother City.
The route arrives at a time of growing interest between the two regions. Travel between Cape Town and South America has shown impressive momentum in 2025, with an 8% year-to-date increase and 41,000 two-way passengers recorded between January and August alone. By year-end, numbers are expected to rebound to pre-pandemic levels, nearing 70,000 travellers.
Wesgro CEO and spokesperson for Cape Town Air Access, Wrenelle Stander, welcomed the announcement, noting its significance for the Western Cape’s long-term growth strategy. “This milestone directly supports our focus on unlocking high-growth markets like Brazil. As we broaden Cape Town’s global footprint, this connection creates exciting new opportunities for tourism, trade and investment.”
Travellers can expect a smooth and modern long-haul experience aboard LATAM’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, which will service the route. Beyond convenience, the new link is anticipated to deliver meaningful economic impact by deepening commercial ties and enhancing Cape Town’s reputation as a leading hub for both business and leisure.
The province’s leadership echoed this sentiment. Dr Ivan Meyer, Provincial Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, described the route as “a major milestone for the Western Cape,” emphasising its role in boosting tourism and opening doors for expanded trade and investment.
Cape Town joins a selection of global destinations added as part of LATAM’s network growth, which now includes over 60 airports in Brazil and new international routes to South Africa, Belgium and the Netherlands.
Reflecting on the journey that led to this achievement, Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, shared his enthusiasm: “On a previous trade mission to São Paulo, I met with the LATAM team about exactly this kind of connection, and now it’s becoming a reality. This route is a game-changer—strengthening cultural ties, expanding commercial links, and creating a powerful south-to-south travel corridor. It supports jobs, boosts competitiveness, and opens global doors for local businesses.”
As Cape Town Air Access continues its mission to enhance the region’s connectivity, developments like this one are poised to play a central role in shaping the Western Cape’s economic future.
