Wednesday, June 25, 2025

In a major move to enhance travel opportunities for both South African and regional travelers, Air Tanzania is introducing a new direct route connecting Johannesburg to Zanzibar. Starting June 10, 2025, the twice-a-week service will run on a Tuesday and Thursday basis, providing a convenient option for tourists and business commuters alike to travel into one of East Africa’s most sought-after destinations.

The launch of direct Zanzibar flights represents a key development in the African aviation industry, offering travelers from Johannesburg a seamless connection to Zanzibar, a sought-after destination on the Indian Ocean coast. Known for its white sandy beaches, rich culture, and vibrant tourism scene, Zanzibar attracts both leisure and business travelers. The new flight path will cut down on travel time, making it more convenient for holidaymakers and business professionals to reach the island.

By providing direct flights to Zanzibar, Air Tanzania is also contributing to the growth of regional tourism, which plays a crucial role in fostering economic development in East and Southern Africa. The new route is expected to draw more visitors to Zanzibar, thereby benefiting the island’s tourism sector and other local industries, including hospitality and trade.

The new flights will operate on a twice-weekly schedule, which gives passengers the flexibility to plan their trips at convenient times. Here are some key details about the service:

For South African travelers, this new route not only reduces the time it takes to reach Zanzibar, but also offers an exciting opportunity to explore one of the most beautiful coastal regions in Africa. With its picturesque beaches, cultural heritage, and historic sites, Zanzibar is the perfect destination for a tropical getaway without leaving the continent.

This new route between Johannesburg and Zanzibar complements Air Tanzania’s existing flights between Johannesburg and Dar es Salaam, launched in late 2023. These flights have already contributed to improving regional connectivity and enhancing travel options for both business and leisure purposes. The addition of the Zanzibar flights further strengthens Air Tanzania’s role in promoting regional tourism and business exchanges.

The new flights are part of a broader initiative to improve East Africa connectivity and provide more travel options across the region. As intra-African travel grows, Air Tanzania is positioning itself as a key player in expanding access to key destinations in East and Southern Africa travel, which helps strengthen regional ties and boost economic collaboration.

This development is also aligned with the goals of the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which emphasizes better connectivity, integration, and collaboration across the continent. By offering direct Zanzibar flights, Air Tanzania is contributing to this larger vision of a more connected Africa.

The introduction of Zanzibar flights is not just beneficial for tourism but also for regional business. The new route enhances travel opportunities for professionals and entrepreneurs looking to explore new markets or establish connections across the region. Business travelers will find it more convenient to access the island’s growing economy, while at the same time, tourists will have a more accessible route to one of East Africa’s most important cultural and historical centers.

This new air link is also expected to stimulate other local industries, such as hospitality and trade, by making it easier for people to travel between South Africa and Tanzania. As more people visit Zanzibar, the demand for accommodation, local tours, and other services is likely to increase, providing a boost to the local economy.

The introduction of direct Zanzibar flights by Air Tanzania between Johannesburg and Zanzibar is a significant step forward for both regional travel and tourism. This new service offers more accessible options for South African travelers looking to visit Zanzibar’s stunning beaches and cultural landmarks. Moreover, the flight connection between two major African travel hubs enhances the flow of business and tourism, supporting the region’s economic growth and greater integration within the African continent.

Whether you’re on a vacation or looking for a fresh business opportunity, Air Tanzania’s flights to Zanzibar are here to facilitate travel more easily and conveniently for every individual. Aiming for regional integration, the flights bring a new exciting option for Southern and East African travelers.