The only non-stop flight between the US and Cape Town will soon depart from NYC.
United Airlines recently announced that they have applied to the U.S. Department of Transportation to begin service between the New York/Newark Liberty International Airport and Cape Town International Airport. If approved, the flights would begin as soon as December 15, 2019 with three non-stop flights per week. These direct flights from New York would decrease the travel time to Cape Town by over four hours, and make the trip a one-stop destination for customers in over 80 cities across the country, according to United’s announcement.
The flight would be taken on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft that can accommodate 252 passengers (48 in business class, 88 in economy plus, and 116 in economy). United’s Vice President of International Network, Patrick Quayle, explains the request for this new route:
“We are always looking at ways to expand our industry-leading international route network to offer our customers more convenient options. We’re thrilled to announce the addition of Africa to our global route offering. This new flight will provide customers with the only nonstop service between the United States and Cape Town.”
If approved by the government, the flight schedule would be as follows
Proposed Flight Schedule, Beginning December 15, 2019*
| From | To | Depart | Arrive | Aircraft |
| New York/Newark | Cape Town | 8:30 p.m. | 6:00 p.m. +1 | Boeing 787-9 |
| Cape Town | New York/Newark | 8:50 p.m. | 5:45 a.m. +1 | Boeing 787-9 |
*Subject to government approval
featured image source: Facebook / United