First Direct U.S. Flights to Cape Town in 15 Years Will Be Boon to Tourism
Photo Credit: New United direct flights to Cape Town could trigger a new wave of tourism to the South African city seen here at sunrise. Flickr / Wendy
Skift Take
United’s plan to launch direct flights between New York and Cape Town, South Africa, is a potential bonanza for tourism in the city and the wider region. Now local operators are holding thumbs the seasonal route becomes year-round.
If all goes according to plan, Dec. 15, 2019, will be a day of firsts for Cape Town.
When a United Airlines 787-9 lifts off from Newark Liberty International Airport, it will inaugurate the first-ever non-stop flight between New York and Cape Town, South Africa’s legislative capital and one of the most popular tourism destinations in Africa. It’ll also mark United’s first route to southern Africa and the first time Cape Town has enjoyed a direct air link to the United States in 15 years.
Subject to government approval, United will fly the route three times per week using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner fitted with 48 seats in United Polaris business class, 88 seats in United Economy Plus, and 116 seats in United Economy. Between New York and Cape Town the 7,817-mile journey is expected to take 14-and-a-half hours eastbound, while the return leg will run to nearly 1
