[imagesource:x/@flynorse]

Norse Atlantic Airways has just kicked off its maiden direct flight from Cape Town International to London Gatwick, sparking fresh connections and giving a lekker boost to tourism between South Africa and the UK.

This new route is set to make it easier than ever for Saffas and Brits alike to hop between the Mother City and the Big Smoke.

The low-cost Norwegian carrier will operate three flights per week on this route until the end of April 2025, IOL noted.

The airline’s first flight went sterlingly, as reported by Travel News, being fully booked and arriving a little later than planned at Cape Town International for a good reason. The pilot treated passengers to a scenic flyover of the city, giving them a sneak peek of the Mother City’s beauty before landing. Touching down, the aircraft was greeted with a celebratory water salute and the vibrant sounds of a marimba band, setting a proudly South African welcome.

Touchdown in Cape Town! We’re thrilled to celebrate our sold-out inaugural flight from London Gatwick to Cape Town on 29 Oct. Out latest route expansion welcomed support from teams from UK, South Africa and esteemed dignitaries, strengthening diplomatic ties and showcasing our… pic.twitter.com/Zdx38NA7qw

— Norse Atlantic Airways (@flynorse) October 29, 2024

Bjørn Tore Larsen, the big boss and founder of Norse Atlantic, was on that very first flight himself. He shared that the route came to life after his visit to Cape Town last year. Shocked at the steep prices to get back to London, he saw a clear gap for more competition between the Mother City and London—something that wouldn’t break the bank for travellers.

“We are thrilled to introduce our new route between London and Cape Town. By breaking the duopoly on this route, we are not only expanding travel options for consumers but also driving down costs and putting the customer back in the pilot’s seat,” Bjorn Tore Larsen, CEO and Founder of Norse Atlantic Airways said earlier this year.

“At Norse Atlantic Airways, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the wonders of the world and our new route to Cape Town will allow many more people to visit this amazing destination.” Larsen added.

Fares start from around R5,020 return, including taxes, reports Travel News.

This new route is just a seasonal affair, however, running on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays—so you’ll have to plan your getaway right. Flights leave London Gatwick at 20:00, touching down in Cape Town at 09:30 the following morning. For the return leg, departures from the Mother City are at 11:45, landing back in London by 21:35 the same day.

Passengers will be flying in style on a sleek Boeing 787 Dreamliner, with a choice between Economy and the more upscale Norse Premium cabin. It’s a good blend of comfort and class for those heading between these two iconic destinations.

Commenting on this auspicious occasion, Wrenelle Stander, Wesgro CEO and Official Spokesperson for Cape Town Air Access said: “Cape Town Air Access remains committed to expanding our network and building strategic partnerships that strengthen regional connectivity and drive economic growth. With the arrival of Norse Atlantic Airways’ direct flights to London Gatwick, Cape Town and the Western Cape look forward to welcoming an increasing number of visitors, reinforcing our status as a premier global destination.”

Mayoral for Economic Growth Alderman James Vos said the partnership aligns perfectly with the City’s five-point plan to boost the visitor economy by increasing flights, cruise arrivals, and events to benefit communities.

[source:iol&southafrican]