Norse Atlantic has officially expanded its network by launching direct flights from London Gatwick to Cape Town. This new service significantly enhances travel options to one of the world’s most cherished destinations. As a result, Norse Atlantic now becomes the third airline to operate on this lucrative route.

Moreover, Cape Town, known as ‘the Mother City’, is a vibrant hub for both tourists and business travelers. The inaugural flight, which took place on October 28, marked Norse Atlantic’s first scheduled passenger service to South Africa. The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner departed London at 21:02 and, after a comfortable journey, landed in Cape Town on October 29 at 10:22 local time. There, it received a warm welcome with a traditional water cannon salute.

This exciting new service will operate three times a week, providing travelers with much-needed flexibility until April 2024. Specifically, Flight Z0795 leaves Gatwick at 20:00 on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, arriving in Cape Town at 09:30. Conversely, the return flight, Z0796, departs Cape Town at 11:45 on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, landing back in London at 21:35 local time.

Cape Town continues to thrive as a leading tourist destination, drawing significant interest from travelers across Europe and beyond. In 2024, the route between London and Cape Town recorded around 340,000 roundtrip passengers, with approximately 75% opting for direct flights. Notably, this 5,188 nautical mile journey stands as Norse Atlantic’s longest non-stop route. Consequently, this expansion marks an important milestone for the airline.

Furthermore, Norse Atlantic joins British Airways and Virgin Atlantic in connecting London to Cape Town. British Airways currently operates two daily flights from Heathrow using Boeing 777s and plans to increase its services from Gatwick for the peak season. Meanwhile, Virgin Atlantic provides daily flights from Heathrow with its 787-9 fleet, ensuring ample options for travelers.

Additionally, Cape Town’s appeal is evident as its international traffic soared to over 2.8 million passengers last year, setting a new record. The Cape Town Air Access initiative continues to bolster connectivity in the region, further enhancing the airport’s status as a global travel hub. With growing international routes, Cape Town attracts airlines like United Airlines and Delta Air Lines, emphasizing its global importance.

As Norse Atlantic enters the African market, it demonstrates a commitment to making global travel more accessible. Thus, this expansion into Cape Town opens new avenues for travelers seeking adventures in this remarkable city.

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