LATAM Airlines on 8 July announced the launch of its first non-stop service between São Paulo/Guarulhos (GRU) and Cape Town (CPT), restoring a direct South America–South Africa connection severed during the pandemic. Operating three times weekly with Boeing 787-9 aircraft configured with Premium Business and Economy cabins, flights depart GRU on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays at 22:40, returning from Cape Town on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 15:50. The new route shortens the door-to-door journey for Brazilian mining, energy and tech executives heading to South Africa’s Western Cape cluster by at least four hours versus one-stop itineraries via Johannesburg or European hubs. Cargo capacity—up to 11 tonnes per flight—will also benefit Brazil’s fruit exporters and South Africa’s wine producers, both keen to tap opposite-season demand. LATAM secured fifth-freedom rights to carry passengers continuing to Nairobi under a codeshare with Kenya Airways, pending Kenyan regulatory sign-off expected later this quarter. Mobility managers should note that Brazilian passport holders receive a free 90-day visitor’s permit on arrival in South Africa but must complete the new e-Traveller Declaration online before boarding. The Cape Town service complements LATAM’s daily Johannesburg flights via Santiago and cements Guarulhos’ status as Latin America’s most connected long-haul hub. According to ANAC data, international seat capacity from GRU will exceed pre-COVID levels by October if the route maintains its projected 85 % load factor. Introductory fares start at BRL 5,800 return in economy, and the carrier is offering double points in its LATAM Pass programme for tickets issued before 31 July.
Source: LATAM Trade Portal
