Emirates’ rebound in Southern Africa nearing pre-pandemic numbers
In the dynamic global aviation landscape, Emirates Airline has distinguished itself for its resilience and adaptability, particularly in the Southern African region.
With a strategic approach that balances consolidation, growth, and a deep understanding of local preferences, Emirates has navigated the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic while positioning itself for continued success in the post-pandemic era, according to a representative of the airline giant at the ongoing Africa’s Travel Indaba.
Emirates’ operations in Southern Africa have undergone significant changes from pre-pandemic to post-pandemic times. Prior to the pandemic, the airline operated 49 weekly flights, offering over 100,000 seats per month to South Africa. Additionally, Emirates served online points like Zimbabwe and Zambia, supporting its South African operations with independent flights to these countries. However, in the post-pandemic period, Emirates has shifted its priorities.
In an interview, the Regional Manager for Southern Africa of Emirates, Afzal Parambil, explained, “Pre-pandemic, our focus was on expansion, but post-pandemic, our priority changed. It wasn’t about growing new destinations; instead, it was about consolidating and bringing back our original network, which was critical for us.”
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted Emirates, like many other airlines, to reassess its priorities. Faced with travel restrictions, reduced demand, and operational challenges, the airline shifted its focus from expansion to consolidation. Facing shortages of aircraft and logistical hurdles, Emirates prioritized rebuilding its original network, striving to restore its pre-pandemic operations globally and in Southern Africa.
Despite the challenges, Emirates has made significant strides in its post-pandemic recovery efforts. While not fully restoring its pre-COVID operations, the airline has almost reached its previous capacity, a representative noted.
“In the South African context, we are currently operating 42 weekly flights, just one flight short of our pre-pandemic frequency. Our aim is not only to meet but also to surpass the pre-COVID capacity and frequencies, with new aircraft joining our global fleet starting from August, such as the A350.” Afzal Parambil said.
Emirates’ regional ambitions extend beyond South Africa, encompassing countries like Mozambique, Botswana, and Namibia. Through strategic partnerships, Emirates connects these countries to its global network, recognizing their potential as both source markets and tourist destinations. With Africa hailed as a growth region with untapped potential, Emirates is poised to capitalize on emerging opportunities while addressing the unique needs of diverse markets.
Speaking about these partnerships, the Regional Manager for Southern Africa stated, “Our interline and codeshare partnerships with the likes of South Africa Airlines, FlySafair, Cemair and Airlink enables us to connect passengers from regional African points to the rest of the Emirates network. Africa, in general, is a growth region, and we believe in exploring destinations beyond traditional routes through partnerships.”
