Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) said it was excited about the launch of FlySafair’s first international route connecting Cape Town to Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek, Namibia.
FlySafair announced this week that its inaugural international route between the two cities is set with two flights a week starting from October 22.
CTIA regional general manager Mark Maclean said the launch signified growing confidence in Cape Town as a key gateway for regional travel.
“As always, we remain committed to providing a world-class experience for all our passengers, ensuring that every journey through Cape Town International Airport is seamless and enjoyable.
“We are excited about the opportunities this new route has to offer for business and leisure travellers, further enhancing the connectivity between Cape Town and Namibia,” Maclean said.
Wesgro CEO Wrenelle Stander, said more than 140 000 two-way passengers travelled between Cape Town and Namibia in 2023, highlighting the strong demand for air connectivity between the two regions.
“This impressive figure reflects a 17% year-on-year growth, underscoring the increasing importance of this route.
“The first half of 2024 has continued this upward trend, with over 54 000 two-way passengers recorded between Cape Town and Windhoek and an additional 15 500 passengers travelling between Cape Town and Walvis Bay.
“These statistics highlight the growing need for increased air services, making FlySafair’s new route a timely and welcome addition,” Stander said.
Mayco member for economic growth James Vos said that FlySafair’s decision underscored the City’s strength and appeal as a world-class destination.
“This new route is particularly significant for deepening our reach into markets across Africa.
Enhancing our connections with regions around the continent not only bolsters local economies but also expands job opportunities.
“For me, this is personal. I vividly remember flying from Cape Town to Windhoek as a young boy to visit my grandparents.
“Those trips sparked my lifelong fascination with travel and its power to connect people, cultures, and economies,” Vos said.
Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism MEC, Ivan Meyer, said it was encouraging to see FlySafair secure the direct route.
“Namibia has consistently been the leading air market, and this new route will further strengthen the connectivity between our nations.
“By enhancing access to each other’s unique attractions, this service is expected to boost tourism, creating opportunities for economic growth in both regions,” Meyer said.
sibuliso.duba@inl.co.za
Cape Argus