Air Belgium has touched down in South Africa for the first time – and with the launch of its new air service between Brussels, Johannesburg and Cape Town, the airline offers travellers direct access to the heart of Europe.
Flights aboard the airline’s modern A330neo will depart Brussels every Wednesday and Sunday at 19h45 – arriving in Johannesburg at 7h15 the next day, with a continuation to Cape Town.
South Africans heading to Europe will be able to fly from Cape Town International (with a short stop in Johannesburg) or OR Tambo every Monday and Thursday. The flight offers 30 seats in Business Class, 21 seats in Premium Class and 235 Economy Class seats.
“It is an exciting and important chapter for Air Belgium,” said CEO Niky Terzakis. “But we’re equally thrilled to introduce South Africans to a new airline and an alternative route – and thereby direct access to the heart of Europe.”
“We often talk about ‘Belgitude’, and our motto is ‘Fly Belgian Class’, which is all about bringing joy back to international travel,” said Terzakis.
“And while our travellers value our fun and engaging approach to travel, we also deliver what really matters: a safe, seamless journey; transparent billing (no hidden fees); and a generous luggage allowance.
“What’s more, is that we offer travellers an environmentally-friendly travel option as the Airbus A330neo consumes on average 25% less fuel compared to previous generation aircraft. Lower fuel consumption also means less CO2 emitted into the atmosphere.
The new aircraft offers reduced noise level, mod-lighting, and state-of-the art inflight entertainment with WiFi and internet connection throughout the flight.
Fares start at R11,569 for an all-in return ticket between Johannesburg and Brussels, and passengers are allowed a 30kg baggage allowance for free.
The twice-weekly flights are good news for business travellers as Belgium is currently South Africa’s sixth largest trading partner as well as the Western Cape’s seventh largest European export market.
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