Norse Atlantic Airways will launch a new route connecting Gatwick and Cape Town, with the service starting on October 28.
Flights will operate three times a week on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, with return economy fares from £499 and from £1,199 return in Norse Premium class.
The airline said: “This historic route launch signifies a shift in consumer choice, as Norse Atlantic Airways breaks the existing duopoly on the London to Cape Town route.
“By injecting much-needed competition into the market, Norse Atlantic Airways aims to empower consumers with greater choice, flexibility, and affordability.”
Currently British Airways and Virgin Atlantic serve the South African city from London.
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Bjorn Tore Larsen, chief executive and founder of Norse Atlantic Airways, said: “By breaking the duopoly on this route, we are not only expanding travel options for consumers but also driving down costs and putting the customer back in the pilot’s seat.
“At Norse Atlantic Airways, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the wonders of the world and our new route to Cape Town will allow many more people to visit this amazing destination.”
Stephanie Wear, aviation development vice-president at Gatwick, added: “Norse has continued to grow at London Gatwick and provide excellent connectivity to a number of key markets across the US.
“This new route to South Africa is great news not only for those looking for a fantastic holiday destination, but also for trade and inbound tourism.”
Outbound flights depart Gatwick at 20.00 and land in Cape Town at 09.30 the following morning. Inbound flights depart Cape Town at 11.45 and arrive at Gatwick at 21.35 the same day.