Air Tanzania launches direct flights between Johannesburg and Zanzibar:

Air Tanzania is set to expand travel opportunities for South African tourists and regional travelers by introducing direct flights between Johannesburg and Zanzibar from June 10, 2025. This new twice-weekly service, operating on Tuesdays and Thursdays, marks a significant development in East African air travel and tourism.

ALSO READ: Tropika Island of Treasure’s Exciting Season 11 Premiere

Zanzibar flights: what this means for travellers

Starting June 10, travellers from Johannesburg can enjoy a new Air Tanzania Zanzibar flight. Zanzibar is one of East Africa’s top holiday destinations on the Indian Ocean coast. The return route will go via Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s busy commercial hub. This adds more connection options within the region.

Zanzibar offers white sandy beaches, rich cultural heritage, and a vibrant tourism scene. It’s a perfect getaway for South Africans looking for a tropical escape without leaving the continent. These Zanzibar flights will cut travel time and make the journey easier for holidaymakers, business travellers, and tourists.

Zanzibar flights enhance regional connectivity and tourism growth

This new route complements Air Tanzania’s existing five-times-weekly Johannesburg–Dar es Salaam flights, launched in November 2023, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to increasing regional connectivity. By connecting two major Southern African travel hubs, Air Tanzania is positioning itself as a key player in promoting intra-African travel.

Improved air access through these Zanzibar flights is expected to boost tourism, enhance business ties, and stimulate economic growth in the region. Tourism boards and travel agencies are optimistic about increased bookings and the potential to attract more visitors to Tanzania’s coastal and cultural attractions.

Strategic importance of the new route

The Johannesburg–Zanzibar route is a key link between Southern and East Africa. It supports both leisure and business travel. As intra-African travel increases, Air Tanzania’s growing network fits well with regional goals. It aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which focuses on better connectivity and economic integration.

These new Zanzibar flights could also boost trade and cultural exchange. They create new opportunities for airlines, hospitality providers, and local businesses across the region.

What travellers should know

• Schedule: Flights operate twice weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
• Return route: Flights return via Dar es Salaam, offering passengers additional connection options.
• Booking: Tickets are available through Air Tanzania’s official website, travel agents, and partner booking platforms.
• Travel requirements: Passengers should ensure they meet visa and health requirements for both Tanzania and South Africa.

Air Tanzania’s introduction of direct flights between Johannesburg and Zanzibar is a promising development for regional air travel and tourism. This new route not only simplifies access to East Africa’s beautiful Indian Ocean coastline but also supports broader efforts to enhance connectivity across the continent.

Whether for holidaymakers eager to explore Zanzibar’s pristine beaches or business travellers seeking new opportunities, this service is set to make travel between South Africa and Tanzania more seamless and attractive.