Top 10 Airlines to Fly to South Africa in 2025

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Planning a trip to South Africa? 🌍✈️ Choosing the right airline can make or break your journey. With flights to South Africa often being long hauls, you’ll want an airline that nails comfort, service, and value. Whether you’re chasing Cape Town’s beaches, Johannesburg’s culture, or a bucket-list safari, a smooth flight sets the tone for your adventure.

To save you time (and stress), I’ve rounded up the top 10 airlines flying to South Africa in 2025. These are the carriers offering the best routes, amenities, and bang for your buck. Let’s find the perfect flight for your epic trip!

#1 tip to find cheap flights to South Africa

Looking for the cheapest flights to South Africa? This is a game-changer: Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights).

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Best Airlines to Fly to South Africa

We’re here to guide you through the best airlines to go to South Africa, ensuring your trip starts smoothly. From luxury experiences to budget-friendly options, discover the perfect flight for your African adventure.

1. 🇿🇦 South African Airways

• 🏠 Hub: O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), Johannesburg
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Voyager – Star Alliance member
• ☕ Perks: South African expertise, authentic local cuisine, extensive African network
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Most international Economy tickets on SAA include one free checked bag, but if you’re a Voyager Silver member or above, you get a second bag for free.

South African Airways gets you to South Africa the direct way. No unnecessary layovers in Europe, no confusing transfers, just nonstop service from New York and DC to Johannesburg. The difference shows in the details: warm crews who actually know the country, food that introduces you to South African flavors, and a relaxed onboard vibe that makes the 15-hour flight easier than you’d expect.

Economy gives you proper legroom (around 32 inches) with meals that introduce you to South African cuisine like bobotie and boerewors alongside international options that don’t taste like cardboard. The service feels authentically South African rather than corporate-friendly. Premium Economy offers good value with extra space, while Business Class delivers lie-flat beds and enhanced South African dining that makes the 15-hour flight more bearable.

Here’s where SAA gets smart about pricing: Voyager miles add up quickly on these long routes, but their cash deals often beat award bookings anyway. Fares typically run $900-1,400 roundtrip from major US cities, which is competitive when you consider you’re avoiding European connection fees. Plus, seasonal sales can drop prices even lower, especially during South African winter when weather is perfect for safaris and wine tasting.

The real value comes from SAA’s “Stopover South Africa” program that includes free domestic connections within the country. Instead of paying $200-400 for separate flights between Johannesburg and Cape Town, you get them included. 

• Read next: Beautiful Places in South Africa

2. 🇦🇪 Emirates

• 🏠 Hub: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Emirates Skywards – partnerships with various airlines
• ☕ Perks: A380 experience, Dubai stopover program, luxury service standards
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Emirates’ Dubai-Cape Town and Dubai-Johannesburg routes operate on A380s with onboard showers in First Class. Their “My Emirates Pass” offers free Dubai activities during stopovers of 8+ hours

Flying to South Africa with Emirates feels less like crossing continents and more like checking into a floating five-star hotel. The airline turns the long-haul journey into part of the vacation, thanks to spacious A380 cabins, thoughtful service, and a layover in Dubai that’s anything but boring.

Even in Economy, you get 32-34 inches of legroom and a personal screen loaded with 4,000+ movies, shows, and games. The meal service is generous, and the overall vibe feels far more polished than you’d expect for the price. Premium Economy offers significantly wider space and upgraded dining, while Business Class gives you fully flat beds and direct aisle access. First Class is its own world like private suites, caviar service, and onboard showers.

Emirates Skywards lets you earn miles quickly on these long routes, but many travelers just go for the surprisingly competitive fares. Roundtrip flights from the U.S. to South Africa often land in the $1,100–$1,800 range, depending on season and sales. When booked right, the layover in Dubai becomes a highlight especially with perks like free tours, dining discounts, and that included hotel stay if you’re on a longer connection.

Dubai International Airport (DXB) rounds out the experience. Think high-end shopping, quiet lounges, gourmet food courts, and even indoor gardens. Whether you’re stretching your legs or grabbing a power nap, the airport is built for comfort. 

3. 🇩🇪 Lufthansa

• 🏠 Hub: Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More – Star Alliance founding member
• ☕ Perks: German efficiency, European connections, premium service standards
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Booking through Munich instead of Frankfurt can mean shorter walks, smoother transfers, and a more relaxed start to your trip. 

Lufthansa brings serious reliability to the South Africa route, operating seasonal service from both Frankfurt and Munich with the kind of precision that makes a real difference on long-haul journeys. Flights run on time, crews are polished, and the whole experience feels engineered to remove travel stress.

Once onboard, the attention to detail stands out. Economy offers about 31-32 inches of legroom, with meals that reflect Lufthansa’s quiet focus on quality over flash. Crews are professional and helpful without hovering, creating a calm atmosphere that feels more like a train ride than a flight. Premium Economy adds noticeable breathing room, and Business Class delivers comfort without excess like lie-flat beds, solid dining, and understated luxury.

Miles & More works brilliantly for South African travel since these long routes accelerate earnings quickly, while Lufthansa’s competitive pricing typically runs $1,000-1,600 roundtrip from major US cities via German hubs. Seasonal sales often include attractive business class upgrades that can make premium African travel surprisingly affordable, especially if you can travel during European winter when they’re actively filling premium seats.

Frankfurt and Munich both work well as South African gateways, with Lufthansa’s operations running like clockwork despite handling massive passenger volumes. Frankfurt offers more flight frequency and connections, while Munich provides a more manageable airport experience with shorter walking distances and that relaxed Bavarian atmosphere. 

4. 🇨🇭 Swiss International Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Zurich (ZUR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More (shared with Lufthansa Group)
• ☕ Perks: Swiss precision, alpine hospitality, excellent Swiss chocolates
• 🧠 Pro Tip: If you’re flying Swiss to Cape Town, book their seasonal departures early because seats fill fast, and early-bird fares often include free seat selection or discounted upgrades to Premium Economy.

Flying Swiss to South Africa feels like letting someone extremely organized and polite handle your travel logistics, and that’s a good thing. The airline’s Zurich-Cape Town service is seasonal, but timed beautifully for South Africa’s summer, giving you a direct, stress-free route when the weather’s perfect for beaches, safaris, and vineyard tours.

Inside the cabin, it’s clear Swiss doesn’t do anything halfway. Economy offers about 32 inches of legroom and meal service that reflects actual culinary effort, not just cost-cutting. Expect thoughtful touches like warm bread rolls and the signature Swiss chocolate served with a smile. Premium Economy gives you more space without the Business Class price tag, while Business offers lie-flat seats and sleek Swiss design that keeps things elegant but never flashy.

Miles & More is a solid loyalty option, especially if you’re planning future European getaways or business travel through the Lufthansa network. Fares to Cape Town typically range from $1,100-1,700 roundtrip from major US hubs, but Swiss often runs seasonal deals that bring those prices down, especially for Premium cabins during shoulder months.

Zurich Airport is one of the easiest major European airports to navigate, with seamless transfers, clean design, and shorter lines than you’d find in busier hubs. If you have time to spare, a layover in Zurich adds real value with lakeside cafés, mountain views, and easy rail access right from the terminal.

• Read next: Top Airlines for New York Flights

INSIDER TIP: Again, I highly recommend signing up for Going.com (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals. Last year, I got an email alert on a $1050 roundtrip fare from Boston to Cape Town with British Airways. The premium version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year.

5. 🇦🇪 Etihad Airways

• 🏠 Hub: Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Apartment
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Etihad Guest – partnerships with various airlines
• ☕ Perks: Abu Dhabi stopover program, luxury focus, smaller hub experience
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Etihad’s “Extra Legroom & Lounge” bundle gives you exit row seats and lounge access in Abu Dhabi for under $150.

Etihad treats South Africa travel like a boutique luxury experience, connecting through Abu Dhabi with the kind of personalized attention that makes you feel valued rather than processed. While Emirates gets all the publicity with flashy A380s, Etihad quietly delivers superior passenger experiences through their more refined approach and less chaotic hub operations.

Onboard Etihad’s 787 Dreamliners, the difference is immediately noticeable. Economy seats offer decent space (about 32–33 inches of legroom), mood lighting helps with jet lag, and the service strikes a balance between professional and warm. Premium Economy adds comfort without going over the top, while Business Class Studios give you privacy and space to actually relax, not just sit still for hours.

As a loyalty program, Etihad Guest makes it easy to rack up miles, especially with airline partners like American Airlines and Air Canada. While award redemptions vary, their cash fares often provide more value, especially in Business, where seasonal promos can drop fares to $1,200-$1,800 roundtrip from major U.S. cities.

Abu Dhabi International feels refreshingly calm compared to Dubai. Transits are easier, lounges are more relaxed, and you don’t feel like you’re in a mall with runways. Etihad’s stopover program adds even more value with hotel stays, free experiences, and cultural add-ons that make a long connection something to look forward to.

• Read next: Magical Places in the UAE

6. 🇹🇷 Turkish Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Istanbul Airport (IST)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles&Smiles – Star Alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Istanbul connections, exceptional Turkish cuisine, extensive global network
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Turkish Airlines lets Economy passengers pre-order special meals, including regional Turkish dishes.

Flying Turkish Airlines to South Africa just makes sense—geographically and gastronomically. Istanbul sits perfectly between North America and the African continent, offering an easy, often cheaper way to reach Cape Town without the chaos of Western European hubs. Add in Turkish hospitality and you’ve got a route that feels more like an experience than a layover.

You’ll taste the difference immediately when meal service begins. Turkish Airlines takes food seriously, serving authentic Turkish cuisine that rivals Istanbul’s best restaurants instead of the usual airline attempts at international food. Economy gives you comfortable seating with meals that make you actually look forward to eating on the plane, while Business delivers culinary experiences that showcase Turkish culture at 35,000 feet. Even their coffee service feels ceremonial rather than rushed.

Miles&Smiles gives you access to Star Alliance perks, but the real win is their cash pricing. Flights from US cities to Cape Town via Istanbul regularly run $900-1,500 roundtrip, often undercutting direct fares while offering far better service. Business Class promos sometimes drop low enough to be a no-brainer if you want to fly in style.

Istanbul Airport is built for long connections—sleeping pods, Turkish baths, and lounges that feel like luxury hotels make layovers easier to enjoy. And if your connection’s long enough, the city’s culture and food are just a quick metro ride away.

7. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta (ATL), New York-JFK (JFK), Minneapolis (MSP)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Comfort+, First Class, Delta One
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles – partners with Virgin Atlantic and Air France-KLM
• ☕ Perks: Atlanta-Johannesburg nonstop, Sky Club lounges, reliable operations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: During Delta’s flash upgrade offers (usually 48-72 hours before departure), you can sometimes score Delta One at a fraction of the cost.

Delta basically said “forget European connections” and launched direct Atlanta-Johannesburg service that cuts through all the layover nonsense. Delta’s daily A350 service gets you to South Africa in one shot, often for less total cost than connecting flights when you factor in European airport fees and potential overnight stays. The 16-hour journey sounds intimidating until you realize it beats spending 20+ hours in airports.

The A350 makes a huge difference for ultra-long-haul comfort, with cabin pressure and humidity systems that actually reduce jet lag compared to older aircraft. Main Cabin provides decent space for the marathon flight, while Comfort+ adds the extra legroom that transforms 16 hours from torture into merely long. Delta One creates lie-flat experiences that make you arrive in Johannesburg refreshed rather than destroyed, which matters when you’re planning safari adventures.

Smart frequent flyers love how SkyMiles add up fast on this route’s distance. You’ll earn enough for domestic upgrades just getting to Africa. Expect to pay $1,200-2,200 roundtrip depending on season, which isn’t cheap but beats the total cost of European connections once you add meals, hotels, and hassle. Delta’s sales can make their premium cabin surprisingly reasonable for bucket-list African trips.

Atlanta’s role as America’s busiest airport actually works in your favor here, with connections from practically everywhere without the stress of international layovers. The direct routing eliminates visa complications and time zone confusion, plus you avoid the risk of European strikes or weather delays that can derail African adventures planned months in advance.

8. 🇪🇬 EgyptAir

• 🏠 Hub: Cairo International Airport (CAI)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: EgyptAir Plus – Star Alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Cairo connections, competitive African pricing, ancient history stopovers
• 🧠 Pro Tip: EgyptAir offers a 24-hour Cairo Transit Tour through partner agencies. This includes airport pickup, museum tickets, and a visit to the pyramids without the stress of planning it yourself. This is perfect if you have a long layover.

EgyptAir might not come with bells and whistles, but it gets the job done with one of the most unique stopovers you can ask for. If you’re the kind of traveler who values real experiences over luxury extras, routing through Cairo is a smart move. Not only can it save you a few hundred bucks compared to European carriers, it also opens the door to something wild: seeing the pyramids and the Egyptian Museum before heading to Johannesburg or Cape Town.

Don’t expect fancy flat-bed seats or gourmet dining, but do expect honest service that gets the job done. Economy provides basic comfort with crews who bring genuine Egyptian warmth to the experience, while Business offers enhanced space without the astronomical pricing some carriers charge for African routes. The meal service introduces you to Middle Eastern flavors that prepare you for the diverse culinary experiences waiting in South Africa.

Where EgyptAir really shines is value. Roundtrip fares from major U.S. cities to South Africa typically range from $700 to $1,300, and their off-season sales can push prices even lower. EgyptAir Plus, part of the Star Alliance, allows you to earn and redeem miles across a wide global network. It’s especially useful if you’re stringing together trips through Africa or the Middle East.

There are extra perks too. EgyptAir occasionally includes free hotel stays on long layovers or discounts on domestic flights within Africa. Baggage allowances are generous, often including two checked bags for international economy passengers. 

9. 🇫🇷 Air France

• 🏠 Hub: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Paris
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, La Première (First)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue – SkyTeam alliance with KLM
• ☕ Perks: French culinary excellence, Paris connections, extensive African network
• 🧠 Pro Tip: You can use Air France’s “Time to Think” feature to lock in your fare for up to 3 days before booking. It’s perfect if you need time to plan a Paris stopover or coordinate travel dates without losing a good South Africa deal.

Flying Air France to South Africa feels like adding a layer of French sophistication to your African adventure, with Paris connections that turn necessary layovers into opportunities to experience world-class cuisine, wine, and culture before continuing to the southern hemisphere.

Picture this: you’re sipping proper French wine at 35,000 feet while watching African landscapes unfold below. Economy offers 31–32 inches of legroom and meal service that includes actual French dishes (yes, even a cheese course). Premium Economy adds more space and upgraded dining, while Business and La Première turn the cabin into a high-altitude brasserie, complete with Bordeaux and Michelin-inspired meals.

Flying Blue makes earning miles feel rewarding, especially with monthly Promo Rewards that can cut award fares to South Africa by up to 50%. Roundtrip cash fares from the U.S. typically land between $1,000 and $1,700, and you’ll often find package deals that include a Paris stopover and discounted hotel stays.

Charles de Gaulle may be a busy hub, but flying with Air France comes with solid perks that make the trip smoother. Their “France Stopover” program includes discounted hotel rates and optional add-ons like skip-the-line museum tickets or transit passes during long layovers in Paris.

10. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Newark (EWR), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Washington Dulles (IAD), San Francisco (SFO)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Economy, Economy Plus, Polaris Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus – Star Alliance member with no expiring miles
• ☕ Perks: Star Alliance network, ConnectionSaver technology, reliable app
• 🧠 Pro Tip: If you’re booking a roundtrip with United miles, you can add a free one-way flight within Africa using their Excursionist Perk.

United doesn’t fly directly to South Africa, but that’s where their Star Alliance partnerships shine. They route travelers through European hubs like Frankfurt and Zurich, connecting you to partner airlines such as Lufthansa or Swiss for the final leg. It’s a flexible setup that works surprisingly well for U.S. flyers, especially those who want to earn United miles on every segment of their journey.

The transatlantic Economy cabins are decent, with 31 inches of legroom and personal entertainment screens on most long-haul aircraft. Economy Plus gives extra breathing room, which really helps on longer trips. For a splurge, Polaris Business offers lie-flat seats and upgraded meals that compete well with European carriers on similar routes.

MileagePlus has an edge for long-haul trips thanks to no-expiry miles and generous earning when flying partners. Roundtrip flights to South Africa via Europe typically range from $1,100 to $1,800, with mileage redemptions available on United or partner legs. Promo awards also pop up seasonally, letting you use fewer miles for high-value flights.

United’s mobile app makes a big difference when managing international trips with multiple carriers. You can track real-time flight changes, manage boarding passes across partners like Lufthansa and Swiss, and get instant gate updates, especially helpful during tight layovers. If delays happen, the app’s rebooking options are straightforward and fast.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Airlines to Fly to South Africa

Got questions about the best airlines to South Africa? Our FAQ section is packed with answers to make your trip planning a breeze!

What is the best airline to fly to Africa from the USA?

When considering the best airline to fly to Africa from the USA, it’s essential to look at factors like comfort, service quality, and flight network. Airlines like Delta Air Lines and United Airlines offer extensive routes and are known for their reliable service. They provide a mix of comfort and convenience, making them top choices for travelers. Each airline has its unique strengths, so the best choice can also depend on your specific travel needs and preferences.

Which airlines fly direct from the USA to South Africa?

For direct flights from the USA to South Africa, your options include airlines like United Airlines and Delta Air Lines. United Airlines offers direct flights from Newark to Johannesburg, while Delta Air Lines operates direct flights from Atlanta to Johannesburg. These direct services are ideal for travelers looking to minimize travel time and avoid layovers. Both airlines are known for their reliability and quality service, ensuring a comfortable journey to South Africa.

Which is the best airline to fly in South Africa?

In South Africa, South African Airways is often regarded as the best airline to fly with. It’s known for its extensive domestic and international network, connecting major cities within South Africa and beyond. The airline offers a blend of comfort, reliable service, and a good safety record. For travelers exploring South Africa, it provides convenient and comfortable travel options, making it a top choice for both domestic and international routes.

Which is the most comfortable airline in South Africa?

Comfort is key when flying, and in South Africa, airlines like South African Airways and British Airways are known for their comfort. South African Airways, with its modern fleet and spacious seating, offers a comfortable flying experience. British Airways, known for its premium service standards, also provides a high level of comfort. These airlines focus on passenger comfort, offering amenities like extra legroom and quality in-flight services.

Are there budget airlines that fly to South Africa?

Yes, there are budget airlines that fly to South Africa, offering more affordable travel options. Airlines like Mango, Kulula, and FlySafair are popular choices for budget-conscious travelers. They provide domestic flights within South Africa at competitive prices. While amenities might be more basic compared to full-service airlines, these budget carriers are a great option for travelers looking to save on airfare while exploring South Africa.

What are the luxury travel options for flying to South Africa?

For luxury travel to South Africa, consider airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and British Airways. These airlines offer premium cabins with luxurious amenities. Emirates and Qatar Airways are known for their exceptional business and first-class experiences, including lie-flat beds and gourmet dining. British Airways also offers a high level of comfort and service in its premium cabins. These airlines provide a luxurious and comfortable journey to South Africa.

How do I choose the best airline for my trip to South Africa?

Choosing the best airline for your trip to South Africa depends on several factors. Consider the route network, flight availability, ticket prices, and the level of comfort and service offered. Look at customer reviews and ratings for insights into the airline’s service quality. Also, consider any frequent flyer programs you’re part of, as this might influence your choice. Balancing these factors will help you select the airline that best fits your travel needs and preferences.

What should I expect in terms of service when flying to South Africa?

When flying to South Africa, expect a range of services depending on the airline. Full-service airlines like South African Airways, Emirates, and British Airways offer comprehensive in-flight services, including meals, entertainment, and comfortable seating. Budget airlines might offer a more basic service, with options to purchase food and drinks on board. Regardless of the airline, you can expect a focus on safety and efforts to ensure a pleasant flight experience.

What amenities can I expect on flights to South Africa?

On flights to South Africa, amenities vary by airline but generally include in-flight entertainment, meals, and beverages. Premium airlines often offer additional comforts like extra legroom, Wi-Fi, and amenity kits. Budget carriers might have more basic offerings, with options to purchase extras. Always check with your airline for specific amenities to ensure a comfortable journey.

How early should I book my flight to South Africa for the best deals?

For the best deals on flights to South Africa, it’s advisable to book several months in advance. Generally, booking 3 to 6 months before your travel date can offer more favorable prices. Keep an eye on airline sales and sign up for fare alerts to snag good deals. Remember, last-minute bookings can sometimes be costly.

South African Airlines in 2025: A Recap

In conclusion, there are many top-rated airlines that fly to South Africa, each with its own unique strengths and offerings. From the well-known giants like Air Canada and United Airlines to the cozy charm of Porter Airlines, there is an airline out there to suit every traveler’s needs and budget.

Whether you’re looking for exceptional customer service, state-of-the-art technology, or an extensive network of routes, South Africa has it all. So, whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure or a quick weekend getaway, be sure to consider these top airlines for your journey to South Africa. And don’t forget to sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights to get the best possible deal on airfare this year!

Happy Travels! – Jon

Read next: Scott’s Cheap Flights Review