en.Wedoany.com Reported - Emirates launched its third daily flight between Dubai and Cape Town on July 1, operated by flight EK778, marking the first commercial operation of the airline's next-generation Airbus A350 in South Africa. The A350 is the latest addition to Emirates' all-widebody fleet, designed to introduce a new flying experience for passengers.
According to an Emirates press release, the cabin design focuses on providing greater space and comfort in every class, enhancing the overall flight experience through cutting-edge technology and upgraded entertainment options. The deployment of this new flight also increases passengers' opportunities to experience the airline's award-winning Premium Economy class, which was first introduced in South Africa in September 2025 and has remained popular among travelers.
Afzal Parambil, Emirates' Regional Manager for Southern Africa, stated that Cape Town has long been one of the most popular destinations in the airline's African network, and the launch of the third daily flight, operated by the latest aircraft, demonstrates the company's confidence in this market. The new flight offers travelers more options and easier connections to its global network via Dubai, particularly enhancing connectivity to long-haul destinations in West Asia, Australasia, and the Far East.
The launch of the new service is also based on a cooperation agreement signed between Emirates and Wesgro, the tourism, trade, and investment promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape, in April. Emirates stated that both parties are working together to attract more tourists from key markets such as the Gulf region, the Far East, and India.
In addition to Cape Town, Emirates also resumed its fourth daily flight to Johannesburg on July 1, increasing its total weekly flights from South Africa's three gateway cities to Dubai to 56. This deployment is further supported by the seasonal deployment of a second daily Airbus A380 service to Johannesburg. Flights EK761 and EK762 will be operated by fully refurbished Airbus A380s, featuring the highly sought-after Premium Economy class and the latest cabin interiors, aimed at enhancing service and increasing capacity to and from South Africa's largest international airport.
Emirates stated that the increased flight frequency not only supports passenger traffic but also promotes global trade. Additionally, by optimizing bellyhold capacity on Boeing 777 and A350 aircraft, along with daily flights to Durban, Emirates SkyCargo can transport key commodities such as fresh fruits and vegetables, chilled meats, dairy products, seafood, and fresh-cut flowers from South Africa to the world, connecting South African businesses with global customers quickly, reliably, and efficiently.
