Air France is celebrating 15 years of seasonal direct flights between Paris and Cape Town, a route that has become a vital link for travellers between South Africa and Europe and a key connection between two popular international destinations. Launched in November 2011 with three weekly flights, the seasonal service has grown steadily over the years, responding to increasing demand from both international visitors travelling to South Africa and South Africans heading abroad for the summer holiday season. Driven by booming global demand for Cape Town as a premier international summer destination, the last two years have recorded the highest passenger volumes in the route’s history. To accommodate this record interest, Air France has increased its capacity to five weekly direct flights for the 2026/2027 summer season. Bringing more travellers to the Mother City With its beaches, natural beauty, food and wine experiences, vibrant cultural scene and outdoor lifestyle, Cape Town remains a major drawcard for visitors from across the globe, particularly during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer months. For Air France, the seasonal Paris–Cape Town service plays an important role in bringing international travellers directly to the Western Cape while supporting the region’s tourism industry. It also gives South African travellers a convenient direct connection to Paris, with onward access through Paris-Charles de Gaulle to Air France’s extensive European and international network. An Air France aircraft parked on the airport tarmac. Picture: Supplied A seasonal route with lasting impact On the significance of this milestone, Joris Holtus, General Manager for East and Southern Africa, Nigeria and Ghana at Air France-KLM, noted: “Reaching 15 years of operating this seasonal route is a milestone we are incredibly proud of. Cape Town has become an important destination in our seasonal network, and the demand we have seen over the past two years speaks to its enduring appeal among international travellers. At the same time, the route is just as important for South Africans looking to travel to Europe and beyond during the festive and summer holiday period. Being able to connect these markets through our Paris hub is a key part of how we serve our customers and strengthen the links between South Africa and the rest of the world,” said Joris. HAVE YOU READ THIS ONE?: Malaika Gray Brings the Heat With Sultry Debut Single “My Fever” Featuring Tanzanian Sensation Marioo Post navigation KLM Flyers, Rejoice! Free High-Speed Wi-Fi Is Coming to Long-Haul Flights
