Direct London to Durban flight sees tourism boom

THE introduction of direct flights between London and Durban by British Airways a year ago is paying dividends for tourism in KwaZulu-Natal, says Phindile Makwakwa, the Chief Executive of Tourism KwaZulu-Natal.

The direct BA flights have catapulted passenger numbers through the King Shaka International Airport (KISA) with figures showing that international passenger numbers have grown by 11 per cent for the 2019 period ending in September.

This is compared to the same period in 2018.

“The direct BA route to London enhances the province’s already substantial tourism potential and continues to help grow international tourism from a key market,” said Makwakwa.

“The BA air link between Durban and London makes KwaZulu-Natal a veritable gateway into the African continent. This route must be used to grow access to tourism for all and to unlock the tourism potential of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal and Africa. The thrice-weekly flight also provides a convenient alternative for the province’s business travellers and holidaymakers wanting to go to the UK and Europe,” she added.

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Domestic passenger numbers have also seen a positive six per cent growth in 2019.

In all the total number of passengers – international and domestic – through the airport has increased by 265 000 compared to 2018, said Hamish Erskine Chief Executive of Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone and co-chair of Durban Direct.

“These numbers prove that there is an untapped demand for direct air services into and out of Durban. It is notable that the UK ranked number one out of the top five international passenger markets for 2019, no doubt the result of the direct BA flight to London,” he said.

In order of ranking, India was in second place, followed by the United States, Mauritius and United Arab Emirates.

Also read: British Airways introduces flight from Durban to London

“Every time we open up a new direct international route, we open opportunities for trade and ease of access for travellers to KwaZulu-Natal. The cargo volumes at the Dube Cargo Terminal have risen steadily over the past five years with  a 33 per cent increase in international cargo volumes in 2019. We expect 2019/20 volumes to exceed 18 000 tons (up from 16 000 tons in 2018), driven largely by the arrival of British Airways,” said Erskine.

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