South Africa Pursues Direct India Flights Ahead of 2027 Cricket World Cup
South Africa is in high-level talks with SAA and private Indian carriers to secure a direct flight route between the two countries, with Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille citing the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027 as a key driver of urgency. The discussions involve the Departments of Tourism, Transport, and Trade, Industry and Competition, with South Africa's High Commissioner to India, Professor Anil Sooklal, also engaging the Indian business sector. India led BRIC-nation arrivals to South Africa in 2025 with 69,680 tourists, and with cricket holding significant cultural importance in India, authorities are anticipating a substantial influx of Indian visitors for the tournament, which will be co-hosted across South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Beyond securing direct air connectivity, SA Tourism plans to use the World Cup as a platform to encourage fans to extend their stays and explore the country's wildlife, wine routes, culture and coastal offerings. Marketing campaigns will target cricket-loving nations including India, England, Australia, Pakistan and New Zealand, with private sector packages coordinated around ticket sales from October. De Lille said the department is also working with Home Affairs on streamlined airport arrivals and community tourism initiatives to ensure visitors engage with local culture and small businesses. "Our key message is 'the world's friendliest country and home of the ICC Cricket World Cup'," she said.
Source: IOL News
