Tag Archives: Travel Indaba

British Airways has announced the introduction of the new direct route between London and Durban to a global audience attending Africa’s Travel Indaba in Durban. This long awaited decision was announced by Sihle Zikalala, MEC–Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, KwaZulu Natal, to delegates at the event. The new route adds to the airline’s existing twice-daily flights between Johannesburg and London, and daily flights between Cape Town and London. “This new route adds to our growing number of international flights‚ connecting us to key destinations such as the Gulf region‚ the Middle East‚ the Indian subcontinent‚ Australia as well as Beijing‚ Shanghai‚ Tokyo and Seoul through the hub in Abu Dhabi. The trade opportunities presented by this direct flight between Durban and London is set to add huge value to our economy‚” Zikalala said. The route is a huge leap forward for the tourism sector, propelling foreign direct investment, improving business potential and ensuring the economic empowerment of South Africans.

More than 6000 representatives from 80 countries around the world converged at Durban’s ICC to attend the biggest travel trade show in Africa. “It’s fair to say that good business concluded at this show can translate into measurable economic growth for the entire continent,” says Sisa Ntshona, CEO, South African Tourism. According to the organisers, the online meetings confirmed for the show between buyers and exhibitors had already exceeded the 2017 numbers two weeks before the opening. In total, more than 1060 exhibitors will be doing business from 22 African countries. “Over 1460 buyers from 69 countries are attending the show. Having the right buyers in front of the right products will take African tourism growth to the next level,” says Ntshona.