Air Tanzania Launches Direct Dar es Salaam–Johannesburg Flights, Boosting African Connectivity

Air Tanzania Ramps Up Its African Ambitions

Starting November 30, 2024, travelers heading between Tanzania and South Africa will see a whole new set of options. Air Tanzania is rolling out direct flights four times a week between Dar es Salaam and Johannesburg. It’s more than just a new route—it's a big leap for regional air travel, aimed at making the journey between these two countries smoother and more competitive than ever before.

The new service will be handled by Air Tanzania’s modern Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft, offering a total of 181 seats. Travelers can choose from 16 Business Class seats, aimed at those who like to fly with extra comfort, and 165 Economy Class seats for anyone watching their budget. This move means Tanzania’s national airline will fill the skies with about 3,000 extra seats every month in each direction, opening the doors wider for business, leisure, and everything in between.

What This Means for Travelers and Trade

It’s not just about having more planes in the sky. The Dar es Salaam to Johannesburg route is a vital link between two of Africa’s biggest economies. Right now, Airlink is the other main player on this route, with daily flights using smaller Embraer E190 jets. With Air Tanzania jumping in, suddenly there’s more choice—whether you want to pick your seat, look for a better fare, or simply have more flexibility in your travel plans.

This expansion goes beyond just moving people from one airport to another. For businesses and entrepreneurs, better connectivity can mean smoother trade, faster movement of goods, and face-to-face meetings that drive deals home. Tourism also stands to benefit in a big way. South Africans will find it easier to experience Tanzania’s wild safaris and tranquil beaches, while Tanzanians can tap into Johannesburg’s bustling city life and business opportunities.

Air Tanzania is looking at the bigger picture. The airline’s strategy is to beef up its presence across Africa, challenging older, established carriers and carving out a new identity as a major regional player. This isn’t a one-off move. It’s part of a larger plan to connect more dots across the continent, making travel easier, boosting regional business, and keeping tourism dollars close to home

For passengers, all of this boils down to simpler trips, better prices, and improved flight schedules. As competition heats up, flyers will likely see more perks—think special offers, improved onboard experiences, and maybe even easier transit to other African destinations.

So, if you’re planning a trip between Dar es Salaam and Johannesburg this winter, expect to see some fresh options and maybe even save a little cash. The skies over Africa just got a bit busier—and a lot more accessible.