Airlink Expands Nairobi and Lusaka Routes with New Flights
South African regional airline Airlink has announced significant enhancements to its Nairobi and Lusaka routes, further solidifying its position as a key player in African aviation. Starting 30 March 2025, the airline will introduce three weekly night-time return flights between OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, Kenya. This addition complements Airlink’s existing daily flights on the route, which began in 2023, making it the first private-sector carrier to operate between Johannesburg and Nairobi.
The new night flights aim to provide greater flexibility for travelers, catering to both business and leisure passengers seeking alternative travel times. This expansion underscores Airlink’s commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and supporting economic ties between South Africa and Kenya. By offering more options, the airline is positioning itself as a reliable and competitive choice for travelers in the region.
In addition to the Nairobi route, Airlink is also increasing its service between Johannesburg and Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in Lusaka, Zambia. The airline will add morning and afternoon flights, boosting the frequency of the route from 13 to 21 return flights per week. This adjustment provides travelers with more convenient scheduling options, whether for business or tourism purposes, and reflects the growing demand for travel between these two key cities.
Airlink’s latest developments highlight its dedication to strengthening intra-African travel. Known for its reliability and customer-focused services, the airline has steadily expanded its network to connect smaller, underserved towns with major hubs, while also venturing into larger, mainline routes. With its modern fleet and efficient operations, Airlink has become South Africa’s largest airline by fleet size and flights, and the third-largest carrier in Africa.
These route enhancements come at a time when regional travel is experiencing a resurgence, driven by increased trade, tourism, and business opportunities across Africa. For African travel agents, Airlink’s expanded Nairobi and Lusaka services present new opportunities to offer clients greater flexibility and seamless connections. The additional flights also make it easier for travelers to explore South Africa, Kenya, and Zambia, three of the continent’s most dynamic destinations.
Airlink’s Nairobi route, in particular, has been a significant milestone for the airline. Since launching its daily service in 2023, the route has seen strong demand, prompting the addition of the new night flights. This expansion not only enhances convenience for passengers but also positions Airlink as a competitive alternative to other carriers operating in the region.
Meanwhile, the increased frequency on the Lusaka route underscores Zambia’s importance as a key market for Airlink. With 21 weekly return flights, the airline is well-positioned to cater to the growing demand for travel between Johannesburg and Lusaka, offering more options for travelers seeking efficient and reliable connections.
As Airlink continues to expand its network, its focus on providing high-quality service and convenient schedules remains a top priority. The airline’s commitment to regional connectivity is evident in its strategic route expansions, which aim to meet the evolving needs of travelers while fostering stronger ties between African nations.
For travel professionals, Airlink’s enhanced Nairobi and Lusaka services offer a valuable opportunity to promote seamless travel experiences across Southern and East Africa. With its reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction, Airlink is poised to remain a preferred choice for regional travel, delivering greater convenience and connectivity for passengers across the continent.
