New Qantas Perth–Johannesburg Route Boosts Tourism, Trade and SA–Australia Ties

“This is airlift expansion at scale, backed by policy, planning, and strong partnerships,” said de Lille.

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has welcomed the launch of Qantas Airways’ new direct flight between Johannesburg and Perth, describing it as a major step forward for South Africa’s tourism recovery, global competitiveness, and international partnerships.

The inaugural launch, held in Johannesburg on Monday, brought together key stakeholders including Australian Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell, Australian High Commissioner Tegan Brink, and senior representatives from Qantas, South African Tourism, the Gauteng Tourism Authority, and the Tourism Business Council of South Africa.

A New Bridge Between Two Nations

Minister de Lille said the route represents far more than logistical convenience. “This is not just a new connection on a route map; it is a bridge between two nations, two peoples, and two tourism markets with enormous potential. It unlocks deeper collaboration, increased two-way travel, and stronger people-to-people ties,” she affirmed.

The new direct service arrives on the heels of South Africa’s successful hosting of the G20 Summit in November 2025, an event that reinforced the country’s status as a reliable, world-class destination for global meetings, business events and large-scale exhibitions.

De Lille noted that improved air access is a key component of the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan 2025–2029, which focuses on expanding routes, improving visa systems, and removing administrative barriers that limit tourism growth.

Strong Aviation Recovery and Expansion

Recent aviation data shows robust recovery and continued growth in South Africa’s international airlift capacity:

• 8.5 million international seats, up 9.1% from 2024

• 4.6 million seats on long-haul routes

• 3.9 million seats on short-haul routes

• Double-digit growth in airlift capacity since June 2025

“This is airlift expansion at scale, backed by policy, planning, and strong partnerships,” said de Lille.

Boosting Tourism, Business and Events

The Johannesburg–Perth route strengthens South Africa’s ties with the rapidly growing Oceania market and is expected to significantly boost both leisure and business travel. It will also support key international events such as Meetings Africa 2026 and Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026, improving access for buyers, exhibitors, and global delegates.

The route also enhances mobility for South Africans travelling to Australia for business, family visits, and education, while supporting bilateral economic participation.

Tourism performance from Australia is demonstrating strong momentum:

• Arrivals from Australia in 2025 have surged nearly 30% compared to 2024

• Visitor numbers are 10% above pre-COVID levels, marking not just recovery but sustained growth

Strengthening Sporting, Cultural and Educational Links

With South Africa scheduled to host the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2027, the new direct flight is expected to play a pivotal role in transporting fans, teams, media and stakeholders, further strengthening long-standing sporting ties between the two nations.

“Sport has always been a powerful bridge between South Africa and Australia. This service strengthens that bond even further,” said de Lille.

Collaboration to Ensure Long-Term Success

Minister de Lille confirmed that South African Tourism will collaborate closely with Qantas and industry partners to promote the route and maximise demand. Part of this strategy includes positioning South Africa as an easy-access gateway for travellers from Australia and the wider Oceania region—including New Zealand—who may use Perth as a hub.

“South Africa is rising. Tourism is thriving. And the world is taking notice. This new route brings new opportunities, new partnerships, and new travellers,” de Lille said. “South Africa awaits, and we cannot wait to welcome visitors who will arrive because of this flight.”