Delta Air Lines back into Johannesburg
After a year's suspension due to the health crisis, Delta is continuing its 15-year route to Johannesburg. At the same time, the US airline is restoring its pre-pandemic African network.
Delta Air Lines resumed non-stop service to Johannesburg, South Africa on August 1. From its Atlanta base, the carrier now offers three weekly rotations on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
"We are delighted to welcome Delta back to South Africa. North America is a key market for us and we are confident that Delta's non-stop flight will boost South Africa's efforts to increase business and leisure traveller arrivals from this market," said Sthembiso Dlamini, acting CEO of South African Tourism.
The flights from Atlanta-Hartsfield Jackson are operated without competition by Airbus A350-900neo. The aircraft has a configuration of 32 seats in Delta One Business Class, 48 in Premium and 226 in Economy (including 36 in Comfort+).
This resumption comes one year after the suspension of this route due to the health crisis. It reconnects two major global hubs and will help reopen South Africa to business and leisure travellers from around the world. However, the US currently only allows Americans and permanent residents to travel between South Africa and the US.
By re-establishing a connection with Mandela's country, Delta is effectively re-establishing its pre-pandemic African network, which also includes Accra, Dakar and Lagos. At OR Tambo Airport, it joins fellow South African United Airlines, which operates the route from New York without competition.
