United Airlines Expands Cape Town Service, Enhancing Direct U.S. Access to South Africa

United Airlines is set to adjust its South Africa flight schedule from 29 October 2025, responding to the growing demand for direct travel between the United States and Cape Town. In a move that underscores the rising appeal of South Africa’s coastal destinations, one of United’s daily Johannesburg <> Newark flights will be transferred to Cape Town, reducing the Johannesburg <> Newark service to six weekly flights.

This strategic shift will significantly boost Cape Town’s connectivity to the U.S. market. The new schedule will offer travelers four weekly Cape Town <> Newark flights and three weekly Cape Town <> Washington, D.C. flights. For U.S. visitors, this means more direct options to reach the Western Cape, further cementing Cape Town’s status as a premier destination for both tourism and business.

United’s seasonal adjustment reflects a broader strategy to expand its U.S.–South Africa network, catering to the increasing interest in South Africa’s vibrant cities and iconic landscapes. The airline’s decision to enhance Cape Town’s direct links comes at a time when international travelers are seeking more convenient, non-stop routes to Africa’s most sought-after destinations. This move not only benefits leisure travelers eager to explore the Cape’s renowned winelands, beaches, and cultural attractions, but also supports business travelers and the growing meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) sector in the region.

For Johannesburg, the reduction to six weekly flights still maintains robust connectivity to the U.S., ensuring that South Africa’s economic hub remains well-served. The reallocation of capacity is a clear signal of United’s confidence in Cape Town’s potential to attract higher volumes of American visitors, especially as the city continues to invest in tourism infrastructure and global marketing campaigns.

For Africa’s travel sector, United’s expanded Cape Town service is a timely opportunity to capitalize on renewed U.S. interest in the continent. Travel professionals can leverage these new flight options to develop tailored packages, promote multi-city itineraries, and encourage longer stays that combine Cape Town’s natural beauty with Johannesburg’s urban energy. The increased airlift is also expected to stimulate demand for hotels, tours, and local experiences, driving economic benefits across the Western Cape and beyond.

This development highlights the importance of strategic airline partnerships and route planning in shaping Africa’s tourism future. As more international carriers adjust their schedules to meet evolving traveler preferences, destinations that offer seamless access and compelling experiences will be best positioned to capture the next wave of global tourism growth.

With United Airlines’ latest schedule adjustment, Cape Town stands to gain not only in visitor numbers but also in its reputation as a world-class gateway to Africa. The move is a strong endorsement of the city’s enduring appeal and a reminder that, in the competitive landscape of global travel, connectivity remains a key driver of destination success.