Johannesburg: Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille on Monday welcomed the launch of Qantas Airways' new direct flight between Johannesburg and Perth, highlighting its potential to boost tourism and trade. The initiative is expected to enhance people-to-people relations between South Africa and Australia.
According to South African Government News Agency, the launch event in Johannesburg was attended by the Australian Minister for Trade and Tourism, Don Farrell, Australian High Commissioner, Tegan Brink, and senior executives from Qantas, South African Tourism, the Gauteng Tourism Authority, and the Tourism Business Council of South Africa. Minister De Lille emphasized that the new direct route represents more than just an addition to South Africa's air network; it is a bridge between two nations, unlocking deeper collaboration, increased two-way travel, and stronger ties.
The launch follows South Africa's successful hosting of the G20 Summit in November, which showcased the country's capability as a Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) destination. Minister De Lille noted that increased air connectivity is a central pillar of the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan 2025-2029, particularly focusing on air routes, visa systems, and the removal of travel barriers.
The latest aviation data indicates a strong recovery and expansion, with international seat capacity now at 8.5 million, reflecting a 9.1% increase over 2024. Long-haul routes account for 4.6 million seats, while short-haul routes have 3.9 million seats. Double-digit seat growth has been recorded since June 2025, underscoring the scale of airlift expansion.
The Johannesburg-Perth service significantly strengthens South Africa's connectivity with Oceania, expected to play a critical role in growing inbound business events and leisure tourism. It provides improved access ahead of major industry events such as Meetings Africa 2026 and Africa's Travel Indaba 2026. The route also benefits South Africans traveling to Australia for business, education, and family purposes, reinforcing two-way mobility and economic participation.
Tourism performance from Australia shows strong growth, with arrivals in 2025 nearly 30% higher than in 2024 and now 10% above pre-COVID levels, signaling sustained expansion. The new direct flight is also expected to play a strategic role as South Africa prepares for international sporting events, including the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in 2027, further strengthening sporting and cultural ties between the two nations.
Minister De Lille highlighted that South African Tourism will work closely with Qantas and industry partners to stimulate demand and ensure the route's long-term success, positioning South Africa as an accessible gateway for travelers from the wider Oceania region, including New Zealand. She concluded by emphasizing South Africa's rising tourism profile and the opportunities the new route brings, welcoming future visitors arriving because of this flight.