British Airways is launching a new direct service from Heathrow to Durban.
The three-times-a-week service starting on October 29, will make BA the only airline to operate a non-stop flight between Europe and the South African city.
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner will arrive in Durban in the morning and Heathrow in the evening. The new route comes as British Airways rolls out a £4.5 billion, five-year customer investment plan, with a focus on excellence in the premium cabins and more choice and quality for all customers.
Durban is a year-round destination, with sultry summers and mild, dry winters. It has long been a favourite holiday playground for South Africans but will soon be easier than ever for international visitors to enjoy too.
The new route adds to the airline’s existing twice-daily flights between Johannesburg and London and daily flights between Cape Town and London.
Alex Cruz, boss of BA, said: “Durban’s warm water, hot summers and laid-back beachy atmosphere make this coastal city the perfect holiday destination. It is a gateway to many nature reserves, parks and historic sites, and has a thriving food, drink and art scene; defining the city as a must-visit for culture and adventure.
“Durban is also home to the busiest port in South Africa and is a large manufacturing hub, so the new route will secure another important link between the UK and the region that will be a welcome addition for business travellers.”
Tickets on ba.com start from £599 in World Traveller (economy cabin), £1,214 in World Traveller Plus (premium economy) and £3,199 in Club World (business class). Customers can also choose to cut the cost of flights by using Avios in part payment.
The airline also announced today that customers can use Avios to select their seats. Previously, customers who did not have access to free seat selection could choose to pay to select their seats. Now, they can use Avios, the currency of the British Airways Executive Club, to reduce the cost of seat selection, or cover the cost in full.
