Airlink will transfer its Luanda operations to the capital’s newly commissioned Dr António Agostinho Neto International Airport (IATA: NBJ) from Sunday, 1 March 2026, aligning its services with Angola’s broader aviation transition strategy.
The carrier’s flights currently operate through Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport. The relocation follows the Angolan government’s phased transfer of international and domestic services to the new airport complex, situated approximately 40–45 kilometres south-east of Luanda in the commune of Bom Jesus.
Strategic Shift in a Growing Market
“With Angola’s economic diversification and growth strategy, the country is rapidly emerging as an important Airlink market for business travel, with Luanda as the primary gateway. The state-of-the-art new airport promises to facilitate smooth and efficient passenger, baggage and cargo flows, and a comfortable experience for our travellers,” said Airlink CEO, de Villiers Engelbrecht.
Airlink inaugurated its Johannesburg–Luanda route in 2021 and now operates four weekly return services between the two commercial centres. The schedule, effective from 1 March 2026, is as follows (all times local):
- 4Z 044 – Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday
Depart Johannesburg (JNB) 09h40 – Arrive Luanda (NBJ) 12h30 - 4Z 045 – Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday
Depart Luanda (NBJ) 13h25 – Arrive Johannesburg (JNB) 17h50
The route is operated by 98-seat Embraer E190 jetliners configured in both Business and Economy Class.
A New Southern African Hub
The $2.1 billion Dr António Agostinho Neto International Airport represents one of Angola’s most significant infrastructure investments since independence. Designed with an initial capacity of 15 million passengers per annum, 10 million international and five million domestic, the facility is planned for phased expansion to handle up to 65 million passengers annually in the long term.
Spanning 75 square kilometres, the airport features two parallel runways (3,800 metres and 4,000 metres respectively), a 30-gate passenger terminal with dedicated international and domestic zones, and cargo infrastructure capable of processing 130,000 tonnes annually. The project is positioned as a catalyst for tourism, trade and regional connectivity, reinforcing Luanda’s ambition to become a major sub-Saharan aviation hub.
National carrier TAAG Angola Airlines completed the transfer of its international and domestic operations to the new airport in late 2025, marking a decisive shift away from the constrained facilities at Quatro de Fevereiro.
Road access to the airport is via the Estrada de Catete (EN-230) dual carriageway, with journey times of approximately 45 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Public transport links are currently limited to road-based services, although a rail connection is planned.
What Airlink Customers Should Know
Airlink flights will operate from Gate B20 in the International Terminal at NBJ. The airport is clearly signposted in Portuguese and English.
Check-in opens two hours prior to departure. Online check-in is available in Angola; however, passengers must download digital copies of their boarding passes. Although electronic immigration gates have been installed, passports will continue to be physically inspected and stamped.
Onboard Experience
Airlink deploys its Embraer E190 aircraft on the Johannesburg–Luanda route. The Business Class cabin features a two-plus-one seating configuration with enhanced pitch, priority boarding, a 40kg checked baggage allowance, and complimentary meals and beverages.
Economy Class passengers benefit from a 30kg checked baggage allowance, complimentary light meals and refreshments, generous legroom, and a choice of aisle or window seating. Airlink’s E190 fleet does not incorporate middle seats. All passengers are also entitled to a complimentary 15kg sports equipment allowance.
As Angola accelerates efforts to diversify its economy and strengthen intra-African trade links, Airlink’s move to NBJ underscores both the airline’s confidence in the Luanda market and the broader strategic importance of modern aviation infrastructure in supporting the continent’s economic integration.
