Air Congo launches direct flights between Kinshasa and Johannesburg
Travelers between the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Africa now have a new option in the skies. On 22 March 2026, Air Congo officially launched its inaugural flight connecting Kinshasa to Johannesburg, with a convenient one-hour stop in Lubumbashi.
Sourced: X{@africans816671}
New routes, new opportunities
According to Travel News, operating under the Ethiopian Airlines code, the flights are scheduled three times a week—Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The service departs Kinshasa at 09:00, touching down in Johannesburg at 16:20, while the return leg leaves Johannesburg at 17:30 and arrives in Kinshasa at 22:50. The one-hour stop in Lubumbashi not only adds a strategic regional connection but also gives travelers a chance to experience the dynamic mining hub before continuing south.
A boost for business and leisure
Industry experts note that the new route will strengthen ties between Central and Southern Africa. Johannesburg, South Africa’s economic powerhouse, is a key destination for both business travelers and tourists from the DRC. Air Congo’s addition of this route promises smoother connections for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange across the region.
Regional impact
The Lubumbashi stop is particularly significant. As one of the DRC’s most vibrant cities, it now becomes an accessible layover for passengers traveling between Kinshasa and Johannesburg, potentially boosting local tourism and commerce. Social media reactions have already highlighted excitement among business communities and frequent flyers eager for more flexible travel options.
Looking ahead
Air Congo’s Kinshasa-Johannesburg flights mark a milestone for regional aviation. By linking two major African cities with a strategic stop in Lubumbashi, the airline is creating opportunities for easier, more reliable travel across Central and Southern Africa. Travelers and industry watchers alike are keen to see how this route will develop, especially with growing interest in cross-border business and tourism.
For anyone planning a trip from Kinshasa to Johannesburg—or a short regional stopover—Air Congo’s new schedule offers a fresh, convenient, and timely option.
{Source: Travel News}
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com
