Qantas Airways will initiate nonstop flights between Sydney Airport and Cape Town International Airport starting October 19, 2027. The new seasonal route will operate three times weekly on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners through March 24, 2028.
Flight QF89 will depart Sydney at 9:15 a.m., with an approximate flight duration of 14 hours and 25 minutes, arriving in Cape Town at 2:40 p.m. local time the same day. Tickets went on sale on November 6, 2026, with economy return fares commencing at A$2,470. This seasonal service is expected to add close to 30,000 seats between Australia and
South Africa during its operation.
Existing Qantas South Africa Routes Complemented by New Service
Qantas already operates nonstop flights from Sydney and Perth to Johannesburg. The new Cape Town nonstop route will supplement these existing services rather than replace them. Many travelers currently transfer in Johannesburg to connect to Cape Town flights operated by Airlink.
Growing Passenger Demand and Market Trends
Demand for a nonstop alternative is evident from tens of thousands of Qantas passengers annually transferring in Johannesburg to reach Cape Town. The market has expanded with over 120,000 Australians visiting South Africa in 2025. In June 2026, Australia overtook Germany to become South Africa’s third-largest overseas visitor source market, recording a 19% increase
in arrivals compared to June 2025.
South African-born residents in Australia number around 225,000, with roughly one-quarter residing in New South Wales, where Sydney is located.
Historic Milestone and Route Efficiency
The new nonstop Sydney-Cape Town flight marks 75 years since Qantas began scheduled passenger services to South Africa with the Wallaby Route in 1952. The original route to Johannesburg took 66 hours and multiple stops. The new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner service will cover the Sydney to South Africa’s Western Cape connection in less than 15 hours nonstop.
Official Perspectives on the New Route
Qantas International CEO emphasized the significant passenger volume currently transferring through Johannesburg, demonstrating demand for a direct
service. Australia’s Minister for Trade and Tourism highlighted the opportunity to expand travel options and strengthen ties between the two countries.
Wesgro CEO stated the direct flight will create new opportunities for tourism, business travel, trade, and investment linking Australia and the Western Cape.
