Spanish carrier Air Europa has launched its first scheduled route to sub-Saharan Africa, introducing a three-times-weekly direct service between Madrid and Johannesburg. The new route, inaugurated on 24 June 2026, is designed to strengthen tourism, trade and business links between Southern Africa, Europe and Latin America.
Operated by a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, the service connects passengers through Air Europa’s Madrid hub, offering onward access to destinations across Europe and Latin America. Tourism authorities expect the direct link to stimulate travel demand from Spain and increase South Africa’s visibility in key international markets.
To expand connectivity beyond Johannesburg, Air Europa has signed an interline agreement with South African carrier CemAir. Effective from 23 June 2026, the partnership enables passengers to book onward domestic and regional flights across Southern Africa on a single itinerary with through-checked baggage.
Air Europa said the agreement strengthens its presence in the region, while CemAir highlighted the partnership’s potential to improve international access and support tourism and business travel throughout Southern Africa.