Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has applauded Qantas Airways for introducing its new direct flight route between Johannesburg and Perth, describing the development as a significant step toward enhancing tourism, trade, and broader cooperation between South Africa and Australia.
Speaking at the official launch event in Johannesburg—attended by Australian Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell, High Commissioner Tegan Brink, and senior leaders from Qantas, South African Tourism, the Gauteng Tourism Authority, and the Tourism Business Council—De Lille emphasised that the route represents far more than an additional air connection.
“This is not just another flight on the global map,” she said. “It is a vital bridge linking two nations, creating stronger travel flows, deepening cultural and social ties, and unlocking new economic prospects for both countries.”
The announcement follows soon after South Africa’s well-received hosting of the G20 Summit in November, which reinforced the nation’s reputation as a world-class destination for major Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE). De Lille noted that the strong international confidence displayed during the Summit is further strengthened by improved air connectivity.
She added that expanding air access remains a core pillar of the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan 2025–2029. The plan prioritises opening new flight routes, improving visa processes, and reducing travel barriers to make South Africa more accessible to global travellers.
Recent aviation statistics underscore this progress:
-
International seat capacity has reached 8.5 million — a 9.1% growth from 2024.
-
Of these, 4.6 million seats serve long-haul routes, while 3.9 million cater to short-haul travel.
-
Since June 2025, the sector has recorded sustained double-digit growth in overall seat availability.
“This is expansion at a remarkable scale, driven by coordinated policy efforts and strategic partnerships,” De Lille said.
A Strengthened Link to Oceania
The Johannesburg–Perth route is expected to dramatically improve South Africa’s connectivity with the Oceania region. It is set to support both business and leisure travel, especially ahead of major events such as Meetings Africa 2026 and Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026.
The route is equally valuable for South Africans travelling to Australia for education, family visits, business engagements, and long-term opportunities. Tourism from Australia continues to show strong momentum:
-
Visitor arrivals from Australia in 2025 are almost 30% higher than in 2024.
-
Current figures are now 10% above pre-pandemic levels, indicating not only recovery but sustained growth.
The new direct service will also support preparations for major global sporting events, including the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, where increased mobility between the nations will strengthen sporting links long celebrated by both countries.
“Sport has always been a meaningful connector between South Africa and Australia,” De Lille noted. “This route will make those ties even stronger.”
South African Tourism will collaborate closely with Qantas and industry stakeholders to generate demand, promote the route internationally, and highlight South Africa as the gateway for travellers from Oceania, including New Zealand.
“South Africa is on an upward trajectory,” De Lille concluded. “Tourism is growing, confidence is rising, and the world is paying attention. This new route brings fresh opportunities, new partnerships, and new travellers—each of whom we look forward to welcoming.”
