Airlink, Southern Africa’s premier regional airline, is set to expand its services with the introduction of flights to Africa’s most populous city, Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This strategic move marks another milestone in Airlink’s regional growth, with Johannesburg-Kinshasa flights scheduled to commence on March 28, 2024.
The new service will operate three times a week, using modern 98-seat Embraer E190 twin-engine aircraft. The route is expected to enhance Airlink’s connectivity across the African continent, providing travelers with more flexibility and options for travel within the region and beyond.
Expanding into a Key Market
Rodger Foster, Airlink’s CEO and Managing Director, highlighted the importance of this expansion into the DRC, stating:
“The DR Congo is a significant market for Airlink. We first stepped into the ring in 2020 with flights to Lubumbashi and now we are ready to follow through by adding Kinshasa to our formidable regional network.”
Kinshasa, home to over 17 million people, is not only the political and economic hub of the DRC but also a key center in Africa. The addition of this destination reflects Airlink’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its presence across key African markets. Foster expressed confidence in the route’s potential, emphasizing that the airline’s combination of scheduling, connections, and service would be well-received by travelers.
Convenient Connections and Global Reach
The new flights are designed to offer seamless connections with Airlink’s extensive domestic South African network as well as its regional services. Furthermore, Airlink’s global airline partners will allow passengers to connect to long-haul flights, enhancing the airline’s reach.
Currently, Airlink operates to over 45 destinations across 15 African countries, including the remote island of St. Helena. The addition of Kinshasa will further boost the airline’s already impressive regional portfolio.
Flight Schedule
Airlink has scheduled the Johannesburg-Kinshasa flights as follows:
- Flight 4Z010 departs Johannesburg (JNB) at 20:30, arriving in Kinshasa (FIH) at 23:40 on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
- Flight 4Z011 departs Kinshasa (FIH) at 00:25, arriving in Johannesburg (JNB) at 05:30 on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
On-Board Services
Passengers traveling to Kinshasa will experience Airlink’s premium services in both business class and economy class. Business-class passengers can enjoy wide seats in a two-plus-one configuration, offering extra legroom, complimentary meals, beverages, a 30kg checked-in luggage allowance, and priority boarding.
Economy-class passengers are offered a 20kg checked-in luggage allowance, while full fare economy (Y class) passengers may check in up to 30kg of luggage at no additional cost. In addition, all passengers are treated to complimentary light meals and refreshments on board, and Airlink aircraft are designed with window and aisle seats only—no middle seats.
Airlink’s flights also include a 15kg sporting equipment allowance, making the service convenient for travelers with specialized gear.
With its growing regional network, world-class services, and commitment to delivering excellent travel experiences, Airlink’s new Johannesburg-Kinshasa route is expected to attract significant interest from both business and leisure travelers.