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South Africa has welcomed a major boost to tourism and trade with the launch of a new direct Qantas flight between Johannesburg and Perth. The new route strengthens air connectivity with the Oceania region and supports the goals of the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan 2025–2029.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille announced the development during a launch event at the Saxon Hotel in Johannesburg. She said the route creates new opportunities for collaboration, mobility, and investment.
“This is not just a new connection on a route map; it is a bridge between two nations with enormous potential,” De Lille said. She added that the route will deepen people-to-people ties and open more room for business and leisure travel.
Strong Recovery in International Air Capacity
South Africa’s aviation sector continues to grow.
According to the latest data:
- International seat capacity is at 8.5 million, up 9.1% from 2024.
- 4.6 million seats serve long-haul routes.
- Double-digit growth has been recorded since June 2025.
The Minister said this expansion demonstrates strong partnerships across the tourism and aviation sectors. She also noted that air connectivity remains a key pillar of South Africa’s tourism growth strategy, especially ahead of events such as Meetings Africa 2026 and Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026.
Benefits for Travellers and the Economy
The new Johannesburg–Perth service is expected to boost two-way travel for business, education, leisure, and family visits. Demand from Australia continues to increase:
- Arrivals from Australia in 2025 are nearly 30% higher than in 2024.
- Visitor numbers have surpassed pre-COVID levels by 10%.
The route also strengthens preparation for major sporting events, including the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027. De Lille noted that sport has long been a link between the two nations.
Expanding Access to the Oceania Region
South African Tourism plans to work closely with Qantas and industry partners to promote the route and increase travel from Australia and neighbouring countries such as New Zealand. The Minister said South Africa is positioning itself as a preferred entry point into the continent for Oceania travellers.
“South Africa is rising. Tourism is thriving. And the world is taking notice,” De Lille said. “This route brings new opportunities, new partnerships, and new travellers.”
