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BA announces Heathrow-Durban route

The South African city of Durban is being added to British Airways’ network from Heathrow.

The direct service will start on October 29 using a new Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner.

Flights will operate three days a week as the only non-stop link between Europe and Durban.

Flights are scheduled to have a morning arrival into Durban and an evening arrival into Heathrow.

Fares start at £599, rising to £3,199 in business class.

BA currently runs twice daily flights from Heathrow Terminal 5 to Johannesburg, daily from Terminal 3 and three times a week from Gatwick to Cape Town during the winter.

BA chairman and chief executive, Alex Cruz, said: “Durban’s warm water, hot summers and laid-back beachy atmosphere make this coastal city the perfect holiday destination.

“It is a gateway to many nature reserves, parks and historic sites, and has a thriving food, drink and art scene; defining the city as a must-visit for culture and adventure.

“Durban is also home to the busiest port in South Africa and is a large manufacturing hub, so the new route will secure another important link between the UK and the region that will be a welcome addition for business travellers.”

South African economic development, tourism and environmental affairs minister Sihle Zikalala said: “We are proud to be able to showcase the city of Durban to the world through this new British Airways direct flight, the sheer diversity in travel and business opportunities that visitors can access through this gateway into the province of KwaZulu-Natal will unlock enormous potential.

“Great Britain and KwaZulu-Natal share a very rich history, and we are excited to be able to rekindle that relationship with the launch of this new route.

“The investment and trade opportunities presented by this direct flight between Durban and London will undoubtedly add value to our economy.”

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