Good news for travellers from the U.S. planning a trip to South Africa! United Airlines and Delta Air Lines have both applied to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to increase their flights to Cape Town for the IATA Winter 2025/26 season. If approved, these changes will provide greater flexibility and more options for passengers flying between the U.S. and South Africa.
United Airlines aims to boost its service between Newark Liberty International Airpor (EWR), wihch is serving the New York metropolitan area, and Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town from three to four weekly flights. To accommodate this change, the airline plans to reallocate one frequency from its existing route betweem Newark and OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, which would then operate six times per week instead of daily. Additionally, United has requested the flexibility to operate select Newark <> Johannesburg flights with a stop in Cape Town when necessary.
These adjustments align with seasonal demand and operational efficiency, allowing United to cater more effectively to passengers traveling to South Africa during the peak summer months.
Delta Air Lines is also making strategic adjustments to meet the growing demand for flights to Cape Town. The airline has applied to increase its route between Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) in Atlanta and Cape Town from three to five weekly flights between 26 October 2025 and 28 March 2026. This expansion will be made possible by reallocating two of Delta Air Lines’ seven weekly frequencies on its Atlanta <> Johannesburg route.
After the peak travel season ends, Delta Air Lines intends to revert to its daily Atlanta <> Johannesburg schedule. The additional Cape Town flights will be operated using state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 aircraft, ensuring a comfortable journey for passengers.
If these applications are approved by the DOT, travelers will benefit from:
- Increased flight availability between the U.S. and Cape Town
- Greater flexibility in scheduling trips
- More options for one-stop connectivity via Newark and Atlanta
Both United Airlines and Delta Air Lines' plans highlight the growing demand for travel to Cape Town, particularly during the southern hemisphere's summer season. These changes are set to enhance the overall travel experience for passengers flying between North America and South Africa.
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