With summer in full swing in the South Hemisphere, Airlink announced the reintroduction of its seasonal flights connecting Cape Town to the remote St Helena Island.
These flights, a convenient gateway to one of the world’s most unique destinations, will operate every Saturday until March 29 2025.
This new route supplements the existing Johannesburg-St Helena service, which will continue to run on Tuesdays throughout the summer season.
For many, the notion of reaching St Helena, a gem located in the heart of the South Atlantic, once conjured images of a lengthy 5-day sea voyage from Cape Town.
However, the landscape of travel altered dramatically in 2017 when commercial flights to the island's newly constructed airport commenced. Now, Airlink stands as a bridge to this bucket-list destination, ensuring that the wonders of St Helena are easily accessible.
St Helena's rich history and stunning natural beauty draw visitors from all over the world. Once a crucial stopover for ships sailing between Europe and Asia, the island, now home to nearly 4,000 residents, boasts extraordinary traditions, landscapes, and wildlife.
Holidaymakers can immerse themselves in unmatched walking and hiking trails, and partake in birding, diving, snorkelling, and a plethora of photographic expeditions.
Rodger Foster, CEO and Managing Director of Airlink, expressed enthusiasm about the route's potential.
“It’s about a six-hour flight between Cape Town and Jamestown, with a brief re-fuelling stop in Walvis Bay. For travellers with a keen sense of adventure and history, St Helena remains one of the most unspoiled, fascinating and unforgettable places to visit. It is a privilege to be entrusted with this route,” said Foster.
The introduction of this direct route is not just a win for international tourists but also for the local St Helenian community with ties to South Africa.
Matt Joshua, Head of Tourism for St Helena, underscored the significance of the Cape Town-St Helena service for both residents and visitors alike.
“Cape Town is a launchpad for tourism. By linking the Mother City directly with St Helena, Airlink is providing a convenient and reliable service to a destination that holds a unique mystique for many. It really is a destination like no other,” said Joshua.