United wants more: Airline files for more flights to CPT

United Airlines has officially filed an application with the US Department of Transportation (DOT) for more Cape Town flights.

Washington DC to Cape Town

This application, for the Washington DC to Cape Town route, entails three flights a week, non-stop and direct. According to Travel News, this route, if approved, will greatly benefit important government-to-government connections and communication between Washington DC and South Africa’s legislative capital, Cape Town.

If it is approved by the US DOT, the flights between Washington and Cape Town will connect 55 cities across the United States  to  Cape Town, representing more than 90% of the entire US travel demand to Cape Town. 

Patrick Quayle, United Airlines Senior VP of International Network and Alliances, said that United is proud to grow operations in South Africa.

“From creating new jobs, to supporting key civic and aid organisations, United has taken tremendous pride in growing our family and operations in South Africa, and across the African continent,” he said.

“If awarded by the DOT, this historic non-stop service will significantly enhance travel options for consumers, strengthen ties between our countries’ legislative and diplomatic epicentres, and benefit thriving travel and tourism industries serving our respective countries,” Quayle added. 

The airline’s proposed route would begin on 17 November 2022, and will used a B787-900.

United will soon begin Cape Town to New York/Newark route

Starting 5 June 2022, just in time for the US summer holidays, United is set to begin three non-stop, year-round flights per week between Cape Town International Airport and New York/Newark.

James Vos, member of the City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee for Economic Growth, quoted to Travel News:

“United Airlines’ earlier-than-expected return signals that there is great demand from American tourists to visit Cape Town. The direct route holds great opportunities for the Mother City, with up to 24 000 potential inbound passengers from New York and numerous more travel and trade possibilities that will be of significant benefit to our economy.” he said.

ALSO READ: Delta Doubles: Airline increases JHB flight route