South Africa’s KZN Province Targets Direct Flights to Boost International Tourism
KwaZulu-Natal’s Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs has announced plans to secure direct international flights into Durban as part of a broader strategy to enhance regional tourism and economic growth. MEC Reverend Musa Zondi confirmed efforts to establish direct connections with key markets such as France, the UK, and India during his 2025–2026 budget presentation. The province recorded 620,000 international visitors and R2 billion in tourism revenue in 2024, underlining tourism’s role as a strategic driver of regional development.
Key to the initiative is strengthening air connectivity through King Shaka International Airport, while also upgrading regional hubs in Margate, Newcastle, Richards Bay, Ulundi and Mkhuze. These efforts aim to unlock domestic tourism circuits and attract further investment. Zondi also highlighted the province’s focus on tapping into the ocean economy, given its 600km coastline. However, concerns remain over environmental management, especially around beach water quality, with industry stakeholders stressing the need for improved infrastructure and sustainable destination management to support future demand.
Source: The Mercury
