Spanish airline Air Europa has started direct flights between Madrid and Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport. This event was highlighted by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA). The carrier will operate this service using its Boeing 787 Dreamliner widebody airliners. This is the airline’s first regular service to anywhere in sub-Saharan Africa.

“The launch of Air Europa’s direct service between Madrid and Johannesburg reflects confidence in South Africa as a destination for business, tourism and investment,” highlighted ACSA Cluster 1 regional GM Jabulane Khambule. “Every new international route strengthens our country’s connectivity, stimulates economic activity and supports the continued growth of tourism and trade. We are proud to welcome Air Europa to OR Tambo International Airport and look forward to a long and successful partnership.”

The inauguration of the new service was also welcomed by South African Tourism and other local aviation stakeholders. It is a significant step in the expansion of the country’s international air network.

The new service will be operated three times a week. In addition to the connection with Spain, the service also provides the option of seamless onward connections to other destinations in Europe and Latin America.

It will also boost South African tourism by making the country more accessible to Spanish tourists. As Air Europa has commercial partnerships with South African carriers Airlink and CemAir, the Spanish airline’s passengers will have convenient access to extensive regional networks across South Africa and Southern Africa.

“The introduction of the Madrid to Johannesburg route is expected to contribute to increased visitor arrivals, strengthen trade relationships, expand business opportunities and further reinforce OR Tambo International Airport’s role as the primary gateway to Southern Africa,” stated ACSA. “As South Africa continues to strengthen its global aviation network, partnerships such as this play an important role in connecting people, unlocking economic opportunities and supporting sustainable growth across the continent.”