Airlink has launched a new year-round scheduled service between Johannesburg and Zanzibar, with the inaugural flight touching down on the Tanzanian island on 3 June 2026.

The new route will operate twice weekly and strengthens Airlink’s growing regional network, providing direct access between Southern Africa’s largest aviation hub and one of East Africa’s most popular leisure and business destinations.

Growing demand for Zanzibar

Zanzibar has become an increasingly popular destination for international visitors, drawn by its cultural heritage, beaches, marine environment and tourism infrastructure. Airlink said demand from South African travellers has been sufficiently strong to support additional capacity during the peak holiday season.

The airline plans to add a third weekly return flight between 15 December 2026 and 13 January 2027. This seasonal increase will complement Airlink’s planned non-stop Cape Town–Zanzibar service, which is scheduled to commence on 3 October 2026.

Airlink CEO de Villiers Engelbrecht noted that Zanzibar’s appeal extends beyond tourism, citing economic activity in sectors including manufacturing, fishing, marine tourism, spices and offshore oil and gas exploration. He said these industries continue to attract investment and trade opportunities that can be supported through improved air connectivity.

Network connectivity

The airline said the service is timed to provide convenient connections through Johannesburg to Airlink’s network of 48 destinations in 15 countries across South Africa and the SADC region. The flights also connect Zanzibar with Airlink’s international partner airline network, providing onward travel options for passengers arriving from overseas markets.

Airlink added that Zanzibar’s electronic visa application system and visa-on-arrival options have also contributed to the destination’s growing accessibility for travellers.

First international route for E195-E2 fleet

The Johannesburg–Zanzibar service marks the first international deployment of Airlink’s new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft. The airline’s flagship jets accommodate up to 136 passengers and form part of Airlink’s fleet modernisation programme.

Passengers travelling on the route receive complimentary meals and refreshments. Airlink also provides a 15kg sporting equipment allowance in addition to its standard checked baggage allowances.

Flight schedule

The Johannesburg–Zanzibar service operates twice weekly using Embraer E195-E2 aircraft:

• Johannesburg to Zanzibar (4Z 010): Wednesdays and Sundays, departing Johannesburg at 12:00 and arriving in Zanzibar at 16:35.
• Zanzibar to Johannesburg (4Z 011): Mondays and Thursdays, departing Zanzibar at 12:00 and arriving in Johannesburg at 14:55.

Additional seasonal flights will operate between 15 December 2026 and 13 January 2027 using Embraer E190 aircraft.

About Airlink

Established in 1992, Airlink is a privately owned regional airline serving destinations across Southern Africa and St Helena Island.

The airline operates a fleet of more than 70 jet aircraft and provides worldwide connectivity through its airline partnerships and FlyNamibia franchise. Airlink is an International Air Transport Association (IATA) member and is accredited under the IOSA safety audit programme and the IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) programme.