Air Europa Revives Direct Spain–South Africa Link with New Madrid–Johannesburg Route

Spanish carrier Air Europa, a prominent member of the SkyTeam alliance, has confirmed the launch of a new long-haul service reconnecting Spain and South Africa, marking the return of direct flights between the two countries after a hiatus since 2019. Starting 24 June 2026, Air Europa will operate three weekly nonstop flights between Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) and OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg.

The new route will operate on a schedule designed to facilitate convenient travel in both directions: flights depart Madrid on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 15:05, arriving in Johannesburg at 01:10 the following day; return flights leave Johannesburg on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 03:10, landing in Madrid at 13:20. All services will be operated using Air Europa’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner, an aircraft known for its fuel efficiency, reduced cabin noise, and enhanced passenger comfort on long-haul sectors.

This launch is particularly significant as it restores a direct air connection that was discontinued when Iberia ceased Johannesburg services in 2019. The reinstatement of this route is expected to stimulate tourism, business travel, and onward connectivity between Southern Africa, Europe, and Latin America via Madrid’s strategic hub. Air Europa’s extensive network and SkyTeam membership position it as a key player in linking these regions efficiently and comfortably.

Ticket sales for the Madrid–Johannesburg route are already open, allowing travellers to plan ahead for the 2026 northern summer season. This development aligns with Air Europa’s broader strategy as Spain’s third-largest airline and a full SkyTeam member since 2007, operating a modern fleet primarily composed of Boeing aircraft and serving over 44 destinations worldwide, including Europe, the Americas, Africa, and the Caribbean.

For African travel professionals, the return of this direct Spain–South Africa air link offers fresh opportunities to enhance product offerings, facilitate smoother connections for clients, and tap into growing demand for intercontinental travel. The use of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner also signals a commitment to sustainability and passenger experience, factors increasingly valued by today’s travellers.