Johannesburg – Gauteng Economic Development MEC Tasneem Motara has welcomed the resumption of Air China’s weekly flights to OR Tambo International Airport after a three-year absence.
The last flights were before the Covid-19 outbreak, which affected direct flight travel between China and South Africa.
Air China resumed its flights to South Africa this week on Wednesday.
“The Beijing- Shenzhen-Johannesburg three times per week is significant because it is back to its pre-Covid schedule after three years,” says MEC Motara.
“More importantly, the flights will also restore the economic ties that benefitted from the flights between the two cities.”
China is one of Gauteng’s important markets for trade, investment, and business and leisure visitors.
Pre-Covid visitor numbers were at 120 000. South Africa is one of the first 20 markets the People’s Republic of China has re-opened after the pandemic.
Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) estimates that every long-haul air service potentially supports 3 000 direct and indirect jobs with a 10% increase in passenger volumes resulting in 2% economic growth.
The re-establishment of the flights between China and South Africa is also significant because it’s happening four months before the Southern African economic powerhouse hosts the 2023 BRICS Summit in August.
“China and South Africa have a long history that has benefitted both countries in areas such as business, education, health care, arts and culture, and tourism,” says MEC Motara.
“In January we celebrated 25 years of diplomatic ties.
“We hope that the flights will also translate to more economic opportunities, especially for young entrepreneurs.”
The Air China Airbus 350 accommodates 300-350 passengers.
In addition, China is South Africa’s largest trading partner with 9.7% of total exports going to the country.
