Emirates flight EK778 has officially landed at Cape Town International Airport, marking the commencement of the airline’s third daily service on the Dubai–Cape Town route. The arrival also represents the South African debut of the carrier’s next-generation Airbus A350, the newest aircraft type to join its all-widebody fleet.

The introduction of the A350 brings an elevated in-flight experience featuring spacious cabins alongside advanced entertainment options. Notably, the deployment expands access to the airline’s popular Premium Economy cabin, which has seen strong passenger demand since its initial South African launch in September 2025.

“Cape Town has long been one of the most popular destinations on our African network,” stated Afzal Parambil, Emirates’ Regional Manager for Southern Africa. “The launch of a third daily service, operated with our newest aircraft, shows how much we believe in this market. The new flight gives travellers more options and an easier connection to our global network through Dubai, while the A350 offers the latest passenger experience.” Parambil also expressed gratitude to the South African authorities for their partnership and support in securing the new service.

The expanded schedule significantly enhances connectivity and flexibility for South African travellers, providing smoother transit via Dubai to long-haul international destinations across West Asia, Australasia and the Far East. Furthermore, the launch reinforces a strategic agreement signed in April 2026 between Emirates and Wesgro, the tourism, trade and investment promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape, aimed at driving visitor numbers from key markets including the Gulf, the Far East and India.

In tandem with the Cape Town expansion, Emirates reinstated its fourth daily flight to Johannesburg. This boost brings the airline’s total weekly schedule to 56 flights across its three South African gateways. The Johannesburg route is further strengthened by the seasonal deployment of a second A380 service. Flights EK761 and EK762 will now be operated by a fully retrofitted A380 equipped with Premium Economy and refreshed cabin interiors, increasing premium capacity at the country’s busiest aviation hub.

Beyond passenger travel, the increased flight frequencies will significantly boost global trade operations. Utilizing the belly-hold cargo capacity of the incoming Boeing 777 and Airbus A350 aircraft, alongside the daily flight operating out of Durban, Emirates SkyCargo will facilitate the efficient global export of key South African commodities including fresh fruit and vegetables, chilled meat, dairy, seafood and fresh cut flowers.