Airlink flights, compared in one search.
Southern Africa's largest route network — the airline that reaches the towns others don't. Compare live Airlink fares against every carrier before you book.
Content updated 24 September 2026
Written and reviewed by Kyle Govender, founder and editor · Johannesburg
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About the airline
The network airline that reaches everywhere.
Airlink is Southern Africa's largest airline by route network, flying more than 55 routes to 45-plus destinations across some 15 countries. Founded in 1992, it spent decades as an SAA franchise partner before cutting ties in October 2020 to fly under its own 4Z code — a move that turned it from a feeder airline into the region's dominant independent carrier.
Airlink's edge is reach. It is the primary — often the only — scheduled airline into South Africa's smaller cities: George, Kimberley, Upington, Bloemfontein, Nelspruit, Hoedspruit, Skukuza, Polokwane and beyond, plus an unmatched regional network covering Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Madagascar and the Indian Ocean islands.
Unlike the low-cost carriers, most Airlink fares include checked baggage, and partnerships with Emirates and Qatar Airways connect its small-town network to the world. On trunk routes, compare the final fare after baggage and flexibility rather than assuming the lowest headline price is the best value.
Compare Airlink faresRoutes & typical fares
Where Airlink flies.
| Route | Live fare check | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Johannesburg (JNB) → Cape Town | Compare live | Bag included — compare total price vs budget carriers |
| Johannesburg (JNB) → George | Compare live | Confirm the schedule for your travel date |
| Johannesburg (JNB) → Nelspruit / Skukuza / Hoedspruit | Compare live | Kruger gateways — Airlink territory |
| Johannesburg (JNB) → Kimberley / Upington | Compare live | Often the only scheduled option |
| Johannesburg (JNB) → Bloemfontein | Compare live | Business-day frequencies |
| Cape Town → Windhoek / Maun / Vic Falls | Compare live | Regional leisure network |
| Johannesburg → Harare / Lusaka / Maputo | Compare live | Regional business network |
Airline prices and schedules change continuously. Use the live search above to compare available routes, baggage and the final fare for your dates.
Check what the Airlink fare actually includes
Airlink’s published route information distinguishes discounted-economy and full-fare-economy checked allowances. Use the selected ticket to establish which allowance applies, and check separate-flight or codeshare baggage conditions before comparing totals.
Airlink primary information · Compare baggage rules and source dates
A useful comparison uses the same dates, passengers, itinerary and bags. Include only costs missing from the quoted fare, and confirm the operating carrier rather than relying only on the marketing name.
Compare two complete journey totals · Compare airline guides
Airlink FAQs
Questions travellers ask.
Is Airlink the same as SA Airlink?
Same airline, new identity. Airlink dropped the "SA Airlink" branding in October 2020 when it ended its franchise relationship with South African Airways and began selling independently under its own 4Z code. It has since grown into Southern Africa's largest airline by route network.
Which small towns does Airlink fly to?
Airlink is the main scheduled link to South Africa's smaller cities — George, Kimberley, Upington, Bloemfontein, Nelspruit (Kruger Mpumalanga), Hoedspruit, Skukuza, Polokwane and more — plus an extensive regional network across Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean islands.
Does Airlink include checked baggage?
Most Airlink Economy fares include a checked baggage allowance (typically 20kg), unlike the unbundled budget carriers. That's why comparing total prices with bags included often narrows the gap. Confirm your fare's exact allowance at booking.
Can I earn miles or connect internationally on Airlink?
Yes — Airlink partners and codeshares with major international carriers including Emirates and Qatar Airways, so you can connect from smaller SA cities onto global networks, with through-checked baggage on eligible itineraries.
Current network additions
More verified route guides.
Schedules can change by operating day. Use the live search for current availability.
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Regional breadth changes the airline decision.
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