Airlink adds brand new direct route from Cape Town
Airlink is set to introduce a new direct flight from Cape Town this October 2026. Here's where they're heading.
Black News 
Travellers heading between Cape Town and Zanzibar will soon have a faster option on the table, as Airlink prepares to launch a direct service linking the two destinations for the very first time.
The new route, set to begin in October 2026, marks another step in the airline’s expansion into popular leisure and business corridors across Southern and East Africa.
New route connects Cape Town directly to Zanzibar
The service will operate once a week from 3 October, between Cape Town and Zanzibar, removing the need for connecting flights through Johannesburg.
Zanzibar, an Indian Ocean destination known for its white-sand beaches, spice history and UNESCO-listed Stone Town, has seen growing demand from both leisure travellers and investors.
Airlink will also operate the service using its new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, a modern addition to its fleet.
The aircraft will carry 124 passengers in a two-class layout, with a seating design that includes only window and aisle seats.
According to the airline, the configuration removes middle seats entirely, aiming to improve comfort on longer regional flights.
The new E195-E2 aircraft will also offer complimentary meals and refreshments on board.
Flight schedule and timing
The Cape Town–Zanzibar service will operate on Saturdays, with the following schedule:
- Flight 4Z 356: Cape Town (08:15) → Zanzibar (14:30)
- Flight 4Z 357: Zanzibar (15:30) → Cape Town (20:50)
Flight time is just over six hours, with all times shown in local departure time zones.
The schedule is designed to suit leisure travellers, allowing for daytime arrivals and departures rather than overnight connections.
The airline also said that passengers already holding Cape Town–Johannesburg–Zanzibar tickets will be able to switch to the new direct flight at no additional cost, as long as they remain in the same cabin class.
Customers who booked through Airlink’s website are advised to contact Airlink Reservations, while travel agents can assist with changes through the airline’s contact centre.
