United Airlines direct flight to South Africa, a message from the Minister of Tourism

Flying directly between Newark Liberty International Airport and Johannesburg, OR Tambo International Airport is now easier!


United Airlines has inaugurated its nonstop daily service between its New York hub at Newark Liberty International Airport and O.R. Tambo International Airport, with the arrival of the first flight into Johannesburg on the 4th of June.

This is an exciting development as it will definitely boost South Africa's efforts to continue to grow business and leisure tourists' arrivals out of North America. With COVID-19 health & safety protocols as well South Africa’s vaccine roll out plan well underway with citizens being vaccinated, South Africa is ready to welcome back visitors from across the world and is certainly open for business. Johannesburg is a vibrant city which is not only an economic hub but also a melting pot of history, culture, fashion, food and an entertainment epicentre.

From Johannesburg, travellers can expand their itinerary via airline codeshare agreements or the network of quality and affordable domestic airlines. From there, they can visit the many attractions across South Africa.

Together, with the planned resumption of the airline’s existing seasonal, three-times weekly service between Cape Town and New York/Newark, United will offer more nonstop services from South Africa than any other U.S airline

South Africa cannot wait to welcome visitors to experience our unique cosmopolitan Home to the Cradle of Humankind, a world heritage site, cities, our incredible infrastructure, wildlife, safari and adventure.