Airlink opens Zanzibar sales ahead of June 2026 launch

October 24, 2025 in Companies, Travel & Tourism by Editor

Southern Africa’s regional carrier Airlink has opened ticket sales for its upcoming Johannesburg–Zanzibar service, scheduled to launch in June 2026, marking its latest expansion into East Africa’s growing tourism and investment market.

The airline will operate the route using its brand new Embraer 195-E2 aircraft, a next-generation jet accommodating up to 136 passengers. The “spice island” service will commence on June 3, 2026, with twice-weekly flights connecting Johannesburg (JNB) and Zanzibar (ZNZ).

According to Airlink, flights will depart Johannesburg at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesdays and Sundays, arriving in Zanzibar at 4:35 p.m., while the return leg will operate Mondays and Thursdays, departing Zanzibar at 12:00 p.m. and arriving in Johannesburg at 2:55 p.m.

“Zanzibar’s proximity to Johannesburg, Airlink’s main hub, puts the island within reach of our customers based in Gauteng,” said De Villiers Engelbrecht, Airlink’s Chief Executive Officer. “The flight schedule allows seamless connections from destinations we already serve across South Africa and the SADC region, as well as onward links for global travellers via our international partner airlines.”

The launch comes amid sustained economic growth in Zanzibar, whose GDP expanded by 6.8% in 2024, driven largely by tourism and agriculture. Cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and seafood exports continue to anchor the island’s foreign exchange earnings, while rising investments in construction, manufacturing, and the blue economy — including marine tourism and offshore energy — signal renewed confidence in its economic prospects.

Zanzibar’s adoption of an electronic visa application system and visa-on-arrival option has also boosted its appeal as an accessible destination for regional and international visitors.

Airlink’s entry is expected to further stimulate traffic between South Africa and Tanzania by connecting leisure and business travellers to one of East Africa’s fastest-growing destinations. Zanzibar’s UNESCO-listed Stone Town, pristine beaches, and rich cultural mix of African, Arab, and European influences continue to attract a diverse range of tourists.

Onboard, Airlink promises complimentary meals and refreshments, generous legroom, and a cabin layout with only window and aisle seats — no middle seats. Airlink also offers a 15kg sporting equipment allowance, in addition to 20kg free luggage for discounted economy tickets and 30kg for full-fare economy travellers.

The airline’s new E195-E2 aircraft — the first in its fleet — reflects Airlink’s ongoing investment in modern, fuel-efficient jets designed for enhanced comfort and reduced emissions.

Founded in 1992, Airlink operates a fleet of more than 70 jetliners across Southern Africa, Madagascar, and St Helena Island, and provides worldwide connectivity through partnerships with major global carriers. It is an IATA member, IOSA-certified, and holds environmental certification under the IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) programme.