Air Europa announced on 10 May 2026 the launch of thrice-weekly nonstop flights between Madrid Barajas and Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport starting 15 June. The route will be operated with Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners.
The new service provides the first direct link between Spain and South Africa operated by a Spanish carrier. Flight duration is approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes southbound and 11 hours northbound.
Introductory round-trip fares start at €549 in economy and €1,899 in business class. The airline is targeting both leisure travellers heading to South African safari destinations and business passengers connecting to the wider African continent.
South African Airways will place its code on the flights, creating seamless connections to Cape Town, Durban and other domestic points. Passengers can also earn Avios points through the Iberia Plus programme.
The route responds to a 35 percent year-on-year increase in Spanish visitors to South Africa recorded in 2025. Air Europa expects the service to carry more than 80,000 passengers in its first year of operation.
Travellers should note that South Africa requires a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate for passengers arriving from certain countries, although Spain is not on the list. All passengers must complete the online traveller declaration form before arrival.
The airline plans to increase frequency to daily operations by December 2026 if demand remains strong during the European winter season.