United Starting Non-Stop Between New York and Capetown
Scott Dylan May 05, 2019
Non-stop flights between New York and Cape Town are coming from United Airlines! The new route will launch on Dec. 15 of this year using Newark Liberty International Airport as the departure point. The route marks the first time that United has offered a direct flight between New York and Cape Town. What’s even more surprising is the fact that the new route will mark the first time that South Africa’s capital has had a direct route to the United States from any carrier in 15 years.
United’s new route between New York and South Africa is still awaiting approval. However, it is unlikely that any barriers will prevent this route from happening. United plans to fly the route three times per week on its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner planes. You may remember that these planes have 48 Polaris seats, 88 United Economy Plus seats and 116 United Economy seats. The voyage from New York to Cape Town will have travelers covering more than 7,800 miles. The journey will take just over 14 hours when travelers are heading eastbound from New York to South Africa. It will take close to 16 hours for the return journey to be complete. The route between New York and Cape Town will be one of the longest routes that United operates. However, the direct nature of the route will actually reduce the length of the journey between the two destinations by as much as four hours when compared to what is currently available from competing airlines.
United’s decision to launch a new direct route from the Big Apple to Cape Town is being seen as a big win for South Africa’s tourism industry. What’s more, West Africa as a whole is very likely to benefit from the news. The region can expect to see a jump in tourism and an increase in foreign direct investment.
You will have to deal with some limitations if you choose to take advantage of United’s new direct route between New York and Cape Town. This is only a seasonal route for the time being. It will operate between Dec. 15 and March 31. The period lasting from December through March is considered to be the traditional high summer season in South Africa. Many carriers throughout Europe and the rest of the world increase capacity during these weeks. There’s no word yet on whether or not United would consider extending the route if it proves to be popular.
[Image Source: Shutterstock]
TravellingMan: South Africa has three capitals, of which Capetown is one. Maybe you should read up a little before commenting. I lived in Capetown for two years and, yes, it is the administrative capital of the Republic of South Africa.
"the first time that South Africa’s capital has had a direct route to the United States" Cape Town is the capital of South Africa as much as Newark is the capital of United States. Try Pretoria instead.
New Jersey - Incorrect title and state references throughout.
Cool! Now I can add Khayelitsha to my list of places visited. I've already visited Kibera in Nairobi (via a Star Alliance partner) and Neza in Mexico. Thanks United! :)
No they aren’t. Only in UA speak is Newark in NY. It’s in a completely different state and is a hell hole. They’re flying from New Jersey to Capetown.