Cape Town gets two new direct routes to tropical island destinations

· The South African

Cape Town travellers have two new reasons to look toward the Indian Ocean, with Airlink adding direct flights to both Mauritius and Zanzibar.

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The airline has officially launched its new Cape Town–Mauritius and Cape Town–Zanzibar services this month.

Both routes give travellers a direct alternative to connecting through Johannesburg, making it easier to reach two of the region’s most popular island destinations.

Cape Town to Mauritius

Airlink launched its first-ever route to Mauritius on 2 October 2026, operating twice a week between Cape Town and the Indian Ocean island.

The airline is operating the route with its new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, which can carry 124 passengers.

Flights operate on Tuesdays and Fridays.

FlightDaysRouteDepartureArrival4Z 350Tue, FriCape Town → Mauritius10:0517:154Z 351Tue, FriMauritius → Cape Town18:1522:35

The daytime schedule is designed to give holidaymakers more usable time at their destination while also making the route practical for business travellers.

Mauritius attracted more than 1.4 million visitors in 2025, with South Africa among its biggest source markets.

The island is known for its beaches and resorts, but also has established business links with South Africa. More than 140 South African businesses operate across sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, consumer goods and ICT.

Cape Town to Zanzibar

The second new route now connects Cape Town directly with Zanzibar from 3 October 2026.

Airlink will operate the route once a week on Saturdays, also using the E195-E2.

FlightDayRouteDepartureArrival4Z 356SaturdayCape Town → Zanzibar08:1514:304Z 357SaturdayZanzibar → Cape Town15:3020:50

The flight takes just over six hours, with the schedule offering daytime departures and arrivals.

Until now, travellers flying between Cape Town and Zanzibar had to face a connection through Johannesburg. The new service removes that extra leg.

Zanzibar is a major leisure destination, particularly popular for its white-sand beaches, warm Indian Ocean waters and historic Stone Town.

New aircraft on both routes

Both services are being operated using Airlink’s new Embraer E195-E2, which has a 124-seat, two-class configuration.

One of the biggest differences for passengers is that there are no middle seats. The aircraft has a two-by-two Economy Class layout, meaning passengers get either a window or aisle seat.

Airlink’s Business Class cabin also uses a staggered configuration designed to provide additional personal space. Passengers can expect complimentary meals and beverages, along with power outlets, large windows and overhead storage.

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