Enhanced Flight Connectivity Between Dubai and Johannesburg
Emirates, the world’s leading international airline, has strategically decided to enhance its flight services by introducing a fourth daily flight between Dubai and Johannesburg. This addition is set to commence on March 1, 2025, and will be serviced by the airline’s Boeing 777-300ER, equipped with three travel classes. This expansion will introduce an additional 708 seats daily, significantly increasing the capacity at South Africa’s largest and busiest international airport.
The new flight, designated EK767, is scheduled to depart Dubai at 00:10 and arrive in Johannesburg at 06:20. The return flight, EK768, will leave Johannesburg at 10:15, reaching Dubai at 20:15. This schedule introduces the first morning departure from Johannesburg in the Emirates network, optimizing convenience for passengers.
Benefits of the Additional Service
The introduction of a fourth daily service significantly enhances connectivity across Emirates’ extensive global network, spanning over 140 destinations. This expansion is particularly aimed at improving schedules to crucial markets, including Dubai itself, as well as Thailand and India, not to mention key European destinations such as the UK, France, the Netherlands, and Germany.
Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the importance of this new service. He expressed gratitude towards South African authorities for their collaboration and support which made this addition possible. He noted, “South Africa has always been a key market for leisure and business travelers flying through Dubai. The fourth flight will enhance our ability to meet the growing travel demands from and to this region.“
Furthermore, the service reinstates the airline’s pre-pandemic capacity to South Africa, offering 49 weekly flights across three major cities, thus supporting the South African government’s goal to boost tourism and attract more foreign investment.
Impact on Cargo and Regional Connectivity
The new flight not only increases passenger capacity but also boosts cargo capabilities by offering an additional 300 tons of cargo space weekly via the Boeing 777. Emirates SkyCargo will facilitate the export of important South African goods like fresh fruits, vegetables, chilled meats, dairy products, seafood, and freshly cut flowers, thus enhancing the local economy and connecting businesses with international markets.
Passengers traveling to Johannesburg will also benefit from expanded regional connectivity. Through codeshare and interline agreements with partners such as South African Airways and Airlink, travelers can reach an additional 60 regional points in Africa. These partnerships facilitate seamless travel across the continent, enhancing passenger and cargo flow.
Since its inception of flights to South Africa in June 1995, Emirates has grown to transport 20 million passengers annually between Dubai and South Africa, underscoring its commitment to this vibrant market.