South Africa's getting a new domestic flight next year

The South African | 12.11.2025 20:18

South Africans planning a getaway that blends the bush and the beach will soon have an easier way to do it, with a new connection from CemAir.

The local airline has announced the launch of a new direct domestic route between George in the Western Cape and Hoedspruit in Limpopo.

Flights are set to begin on 17 May 2026.

CemAir launches new route

The route will link two of South Africa’s most scenic and tourism-rich regions, the Garden Route and the Kruger Lowveld, offering travellers a convenient option that cuts out connections through major hubs like Johannesburg.

Flights will operate three times a week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and a limited Sunday schedule, with fares starting from R4 800. P

Passengers will enjoy CemAir’s full-service experience, which includes complimentary checked baggage and onboard catering.

“We are pleased to launch a direct connection between Hoedspruit and George – two destinations that showcase the very best of South Africa’s natural beauty,” Shaniel Singh, Chief Commercial Officer at CemAir, said.

CemAir said it plans to increase frequency as demand grows, reinforcing its goal of improving regional connectivity and supporting domestic tourism.

Operating schedule

Flights will operate according to the following schedule:

Tuesdays and Thursdays

  • Flight 970: Departs George (GRJ) at 08:10, then arriving in Hoedspruit (HDS) at 10:25
  • Flight 971: Departs Hoedspruit (HDS) at 10:55, then arriving in George (GRJ) at 13:20

Sundays

  • Flight 970: Departs George at (GRJ) 10:05, then arriving in Hoedspruit (HDS) at 12:20
  • Flight 971: Departs Hoedspruit (HDS) at 12:40, then arriving in George (GRJ) at 15:05

Low-cost carrier FlySafair also recently launched a new service connecting Cape Town and Hoedspruit, opening up more affordable travel options for visitors heading to the Kruger National Park region.

The route, which officially took off on 2 October, operates three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Flights depart Cape Town International Airport at 12:15, arriving at Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport at 14:45. The return leg leaves Hoedspruit at 15:20 and lands in Cape Town at 18:05.