In a historic moment for regional aviation, South African Airways resumed its daily flights to Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) in Dar es Salaam after a five-year hiatus.
The grand reception ceremony marked the revival of a vital air link between Tanzania and South Africa, promising to boost trade, tourism, and diplomatic ties. Speaking during the ceremony held at JNIA in Dar es Salaam on January 21, 2025, the Director General of the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA), Mr. Salim Ramadhani Msangi, described the occasion as a pivotal milestone in regional connectivity.
“This is more than reopening a flight route; it represents the enduring strength of our partnership and shared aspirations for growth,” he said. Mr. Msangi credited the achievement to the visionary leadership of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, whose Economic Diplomacy agenda has elevated Tanzania as a hub for international collaboration, investment, and tourism.
The event brought together prominent dignitaries, including Her Excellency Noluthando Mayende Malepe, South African High Commissioner to Tanzania, and Prof. John Maleselo Lamola, Chief Executive of South African Airways.
Both praised the decision to reintroduce daily flights between Dar es Salaam and Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport, recognizing the economic and cultural benefits it would bring to both nations.
The return of South African Airways raises the total number of international carriers at JNIA to 25. This development comes amid significant growth in Tanzania’s aviation sector, which saw international passenger numbers at JNIA increase by 7.39% in 2024, reaching nearly 2.9 million.
Mr. Msangi noted that the revived route would enhance competition, reduce travel costs, and simplify air connectivity for business travellers, tourists, and students.
The daily flights between Dar es Salaam and Johannesburg also underscore the deep historical and diplomatic ties between Tanzania and South Africa, both of which are members of the African Union (AU) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Mr. Msangi highlighted the importance of such partnerships in fostering economic growth, cultural exchange, and people-to-people connections. During the ceremony, Mr. Msangi commended South African Airways for its confidence in Tanzania and the Tanzania Airports Authority for maintaining world-class infrastructure.
He urged stakeholders to continue working towards attracting more international airlines, delivering exceptional services, and preserving the facilities that have positioned Tanzania as a leader in regional aviation. As the Airbus A320 prepared for its return flight to Johannesburg, Mr. Msangi reiterated Tanzania’s commitment to fostering international partnerships and driving economic growth. “This is a victory not only for the aviation sector but for our economy as a whole.
