DURBAN DIRECT WELCOMES NEW DURBAN-ADDIS ABABA ROUTE
Durban Direct welcomes the introduction of the new non-stop air service between Durban and Addis Ababa, a landmark achievement that further strengthens Durban's international connectivity. Ethiopian Airlines will commence the daily service from 11 December 2026, operated on a B737 Max and bookings are now open.
The new route provides direct access from Durban to Addis Ababa, one of Africa's foremost aviation hubs, creating seamless connections to an extensive global network covering Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North America. For Durban and KwaZulu-Natal, this development represents a significant step forward in enhancing global accessibility and opening new opportunities for business growth and tourism expansion.
“The launch of the Durban-Addis Ababa route marks a major milestone for KwaZulu-Natal and reinforces our position as a key gateway into Africa. Air connectivity is a critical enabler of economic growth, and this new service creates significant opportunities for tourism, airfreight and investment. Through Addis Ababa’s extensive route network, Durban and the province in general will be more connected to global markets than ever before. This development demonstrates the value of sustained collaboration between public and private sector partners in advancing KwaZulu-Natal’s growth agenda,” said Rev. Musa Zondi, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs.
Through Addis Ababa, travellers from Durban will have convenient one-stop access to a broad range of destinations, including major cities across Africa, as well as key global markets such as London, Paris, Frankfurt, Mumbai, Delhi and Washington. This enhanced connectivity will make Durban more accessible to international visitors and business travellers while offering locals and businesses greater flexibility and convenience when travelling abroad.
“The introduction of the Durban-Addis Ababa service reflects the continued success of Durban Direct's route development strategy and collaborative efforts with aviation, tourism and government stakeholders to improve air access to the region,” says Hamish Erskine, Co-Chair of Durban Direct.
Furthermore, improved air connectivity remains one of the most important enablers of tourism growth. The new route is expected to stimulate increased visitor arrivals from Ethiopia, the rest of Africa and long-haul international markets connected via Ethiopian Airlines’ extensive route network. The route also strengthens access to global markets and supports efforts to attract foreign direct investment, promote trade partnerships and position Durban as a preferred destination for business expansion.
End
Contact:
Vincent Zwane
Communications and PR Manager
0328140000
