Airlink will launch the first-ever non-stop service between Cape Town and Zanzibar in October 2026, further expanding its regional network and strengthening direct connectivity between South Africa and East Africa.

The new weekly service will operate every Saturday from 3 October 2026 using Airlink’s brand-new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft. Bookings for the route are already open and the airline expects strong demand from both leisure and business travellers.

Zanzibar has rapidly become one of the Indian Ocean’s most popular travel destinations thanks to its white beaches, rich culture, marine life and the famous UNESCO-listed Stone Town. The island’s history as part of the spice trade continues to attract international visitors looking for a unique island experience.

The new route follows the launch of Airlink’s Johannesburg-Zanzibar service which begins operating on 3 June 2026. According to the airline, the direct Cape Town connection removes the need for lengthy stopovers and makes travel to Zanzibar significantly more convenient for passengers from the Western Cape.

Airlink CEO de Villiers Engelbrecht said the airline’s new Embraer E195-E2 fleet has enabled Airlink to introduce new direct routes while improving passenger comfort and efficiency.

“The introduction of our new flagship aircraft, the E195-E2, with its innovative business class and comfortable economy seats, enables Airlink to bring destinations such as Zanzibar within convenient non-stop reach of Cape Town,” he said.

The direct flight between Cape Town and Zanzibar will take just over six hours. Flight 4Z 356 will depart Cape Town at 08:15 on Saturdays and arrive in Zanzibar at 14:30 local time. The return flight will depart Zanzibar at 15:30 and arrive back in Cape Town at 20:50.

Airlink’s Embraer E195-E2 aircraft accommodates 124 passengers in a two-class configuration. A notable feature is that there are no middle seats, with every passenger seated either at a window or aisle position. The modern regional jet also offers improved fuel efficiency, quieter operations and lower emissions compared to previous-generation aircraft.

Passengers travelling on the route will receive complimentary meals and refreshments onboard along with generous baggage allowances. Economy passengers are entitled to 20kg of checked luggage while full-fare economy travellers receive 30kg. An additional 15kg sporting equipment allowance is also included.

Besides tourism, Zanzibar’s growing economy driven by agriculture, manufacturing, marine services and offshore oil and gas exploration is also increasing demand for regional air connectivity.

The launch of the Cape Town-Zanzibar route marks another important step in Airlink’s continued regional expansion while providing travellers with faster and more convenient access to one of East Africa’s most sought-after island destinations.