Johannesburg to gain new international route in November
Johannesburg will gain a new international connection later this year – here’s everything you should know.
South African Airways (SAA) will expand its route map with a new destination. Starting Tuesday, 4 November 2025, the national carrier will operate a twice-daily international service between Johannesburg and Gaborone, Botswana.
The airline has already opened bookings on its website.
SAA to launch new route
This new route expands SAA’s regional network and offers a quicker connection between the two cities, less than an hour apart by air. The airline will operate flights on the following schedule:
- Morning service departs Johannesburg at 06:35, arriving in Gaborone at 07:35. The return flight will depart Gaborone at 08:25, arriving back in Johannesburg at 09:25.
- Afternoon service will depart Johannesburg at 16:40, arriving in Gaborone at 17:40. The return flight will depart Gaborone at 18:30, arriving in Johannesburg at 19:30.
SAA says the new service is about more than convenience.
“The launch of this route not only strengthens the cultural and economic ties between Botswana and South Africa but also reinforces SAA’s position as a premium network carrier,” CEO John Lamola said in a statement.
Competition for Air Botswana and Airlink
SAA will face competition on the Johannesburg–Gaborone route, which Air Botswana and Airlink already dominate. Air Botswana usually offers the most affordable option, with one-way fares starting between R1 988 and R2 100.
Airlink generally charges slightly more, averaging R2 000 to R2 100 for a one-way ticket.
When SAA enters the market in November, it is expected to compete within the same fare range, potentially matching Air Botswana’s affordability.