Durban is set to gain a direct link to Ethiopia when Ethiopian Airlines launches daily non-stop flights between King Shaka International Airport and Addis Ababa in December. The new service will begin on December 11, 2026, using a Boeing 737 Max, with bookings now open. This development is expected to strengthen Durban’s international connectivity and give travellers direct access to Addis Ababa, one of Africa’s major aviation hubs.
The route is expected to connect Durban to a wider network across Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and North America. Durban Direct, a committee supporting airlines in establishing direct air services to King Shaka International Airport, said the new route would have a significant impact on the region. The committee comprises various entities and government departments involved in tourism, economic development and transportation.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Musa Zondi described the new route as a major milestone for the province. The launch of the Durban-Addis Ababa route marks a major milestone for KwaZulu-Natal and reinforces the province's position as a key gateway into Africa. Zondi said air connectivity is a critical enabler of economic growth.
Zondi said Addis Ababa’s extensive route network would improve Durban and KwaZulu-Natal’s access to global markets. This development demonstrates the value of sustained collaboration between public and private sector partners in advancing KwaZulu-Natal’s growth agenda. Through Addis Ababa, passengers travelling from Durban will have access to destinations across Africa.
Durban Direct co-chair Hamish Erskine said the new service was the result of continued efforts to improve air access to the region. 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.
The new route is also expected to increase visitor arrivals from Ethiopia and other African countries, as well as long-haul international markets served through Ethiopian Airlines’ network. eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba described the airline’s decision as a major vote of confidence in the city’s economic trajectory and international standing.
Xaba said restoring and expanding direct global air links are essential for driving foreign direct investment, expanding local tourism, and positioning Durban as an accessible commercial capital. The direct service offers immediate, hassle-free access for international business delegates, tourists, and local exporters seeking global market reach.
Key points
- Ethiopian Airlines to launch daily non-stop flights between King Shaka International Airport and Addis Ababa on December 11, 2026.
- The new route is expected to strengthen Durban’s international connectivity and give travellers direct access to Addis Ababa.
- The route is expected to increase visitor arrivals from Ethiopia and other African countries.
