Airlink, South Africa’s leading privately-owned premium regional airline, has launched a twice-weekly nonstop service between Cape Town and Mauritius, opening a direct link for Western Cape leisure travelers and businesses. The route removes the need to connect through Johannesburg and gives passengers a more convenient option between two established tourism, investment and commercial markets.

The airline operated its inaugural Cape Town-Mauritius flight Oct. 2 using its new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft. The service marks Airlink’s first route to Mauritius and comes as the island strengthens its position as a major destination for international travelers, attracting more than 1.4 million visitors in 2025.

A strategic new connection

The new schedule is aimed at both leisure and corporate travelers, allowing passengers to spend more time at their destination while avoiding inconvenient overnight connections. Airlink CEO de Villiers Engelbrecht said the E195-E2 has enabled the airline to connect Cape Town and Mauritius directly while expanding its regional network.

The route also deepens commercial ties between South Africa and Mauritius. More than 140 South African businesses operate on the island across agriculture, manufacturing, consumer goods and information and communications technology, while Mauritius’ financial services and business process outsourcing industries support broader investment and trade between the two markets.

Bigger business links

Mauritius has also attracted investors through its tax framework and offshore business incentives, helping establish the island as a regional commercial center. Airlink’s direct Cape Town service could make travel easier for executives, investors and professionals moving between South Africa and Mauritius for meetings, projects and business development.

The airline is using a 124-seat E195-E2 on the route, including 12 seats in its staggered Business Class cabin. Economy Class is arranged in a two-by-two configuration, meaning passengers receive either a window or aisle seat. The aircraft also offers large windows, overhead storage, power outlets and generous legroom.

Twice-weekly service

Passengers receive complimentary meals and beverages onboard, while baggage allowances include 20 kilograms for discounted Economy Class tickets and 30 kilograms for full-fare Economy travelers. Customers also receive a 15-kilogram sporting equipment allowance, giving the service added appeal for leisure passengers traveling with specialized gear.

The Cape Town-Mauritius service operates Tuesdays and Fridays. Flights leave Cape Town at 10:05 a.m. and arrive in Mauritius at 5:15 p.m. Return flights depart Mauritius at 6:15 p.m. and reach Cape Town at 10:35 p.m., providing a schedule suited to both short breaks and business trips.

Airlink expands network

Established in 1992, Airlink is a privately owned regional airline operating an all-Embraer fleet of more than 74 aircraft. The carrier serves more than 47 destinations across 15 African countries, according to the airline, as it continues expanding connections between key commercial and tourism centers.

Airlink is also preparing to expand its network elsewhere in Southern Africa. From Nov. 15, it plans to launch three weekly flights between Johannesburg’s Lanseria Airport and Harare, Zimbabwe. A day later, it will begin three weekly flights linking Gqeberha with Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, operating Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.