A strategic partnership between Cape Town Air Access and European carrier, Norse Atlantic Airways – which will see the addition of three-weekly seasonal flights between London and Cape Town (CPT) – marks a milestone in the Mother City’s efforts to bolster its global connectivity.
The addition of Norse Atlantic Airways' direct flights will increase the weekly international flights between Cape Town and the United Kingdom to 27 flights per week during the upcoming International Air Transport Association (Iata) Winter season for 2024/25 which coincides with the South African Summer Season.
Starting on October 28, with flights operating three times a week on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, the outbound flights depart London Gatwick (KGW) at 20h00 and land in Cape Town at 09h30 the following morning. Inbound flights depart Cape Town at 11h45 and arrive at London Gatwick at 21.35 the same day
City of Cape Town Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, James Vos, told Tourism Update: “This new direct flight from London highlights our destination’s continued strength and appeal with travellers and investors in the UK and other key source markets.”
He added that it further shows the value of the Air Access initiative, as supported by the City of Cape Town, as well as the reach of the marketing campaigns stimulating source market demand.
“My team and I will continue to support these efforts to ensure more travel and trade to Cape Town.”
Vos said this includes efforts to lobby the national government to liberalise measures for a more open-air transport market. “Where this has been implanted globally, it has resulted in an increased utilisation of airspace, more competitive fates and more choices for travellers.”
UK a ‘significant source market’
According to Western tourism and trade facilitation agency, Wesgro, the United Kingdom holds a significant position as Cape Town's top market for international passenger traffic, followed by the United States and Germany.
In 2023, the market saw a 54% growth in two-way passenger traffic compared to 2022, with more than 360 000 passengers flying between the two destinations.
Wrenelle Stander, Wesgro CEO and Official Spokesperson for Cape Town Air Access highlighted that the addition of another service out of London Gatwick will increase traveller options between London and Cape Town, especially for price-sensitive South African passengers.
According to Cape Town Air Access traffic between LGW and CPT reached over 43 000 two-way passengers in 2023, underlining the strong demand for connectivity between these two destinations.
"Cape Town Air Access remains committed to expanding its network and fostering partnerships that enhance connectivity and drive economic development across the region. With the launch of Norse Atlantic Airways' direct flights to London Gatwick, Cape Town and the Western Cape look forward to welcoming even more visitors and strengthening its position as a premier global destination," said Stander.
Western Cape Minister for Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger, was equally upbeat about the new route, stating: “We look forward to giving the new Norse Atlantic Airways route and passengers a very warm Western Cape welcome. As a world-class tourism destination, and home to some of the best wines, culinary delights, adventure and leisure options in the world, as well as breath-taking natural beauty, I am certain that this new route will be a great success, offering international visitors the opportunity to enjoy the many and diverse offerings we have across the Western Cape.
She added that this was also excellent news for the economy because more tourists mean more jobs in the province.
‘Breaking the duopoly on the route’
With fares starting from just £499 (€582.6) return in Economy and £1 199 (€1 400) return in Norse Premium class, Norse Atlantic Airways said this historic route launch signifies a shift in consumer choice.
“We are thrilled to introduce our new route between London and Cape Town. By breaking the duopoly on this route, we are not only expanding travel options for consumers but also driving down costs and putting the customer back in the pilot’s seat.
“At Norse Atlantic Airways, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the wonders of the world and our new route to Cape Town will allow many more people to visit this amazing destination,” said Bjorn Tore Larsen, CEO and Founder of Norse Atlantic Airways.
Stephanie Wear, VP Aviation Development, London Gatwick said: “We are proud to welcome another new route from Norse Atlantic, connecting passengers across London and the South East with Cape Town from October.
“Norse has continued to grow at London Gatwick and provide excellent connectivity to a number of key markets across the US. This new route to South Africa is great news not only for those looking for a fantastic holiday destination, but also for trade and inbound tourism.”
Norse Atlantic offers two cabin choices: Economy and Norse Premium. Passengers can choose from a simple range of fares, Light, Classic and Flextra, Light fares represent Norse’s value option, while Flextra fares include the maximum baggage allowance, two meal services and increased ticket flexibility.
