Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille emphasized the urgent need to expand and market new air routes to South Africa during the closing session of Meetings Africa 2025 in Sandton, Johannesburg. Engaging with key stakeholders from the continent’s aviation industry, Minister De Lille addressed the challenges faced in implementing the Tourism Route Development Marketing Plan, underscoring the vital role of air connectivity in driving tourism and economic growth.
“At the heart of this strategy is a decade-long conversation between government, industry leaders, and the private sector,” said Minister De Lille. “We have made significant progress, but as we navigate this pivotal G20 year, the urgency to improve air access to our country has never been greater. Expanding connectivity is key to unlocking the full potential of our tourism industry.”
The Government of National Unity (GNU) recognizes business tourism as a powerful catalyst for economic transformation, not only in South Africa but across the continent. Strengthening air access remains a strategic priority to enhance South Africa’s position as the gateway to Africa.
Leveraging Digital Innovation to Simplify Travel
Minister De Lille reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating barriers to entry for business travellers through digital transformation. Several key visa enhancements are being introduced to streamline access:
The Trusted Tour Operators Scheme (TTOS): Already accredited 65 operators from key markets such as India and China, with a target of 150 by December 2025, simplifying group visa applications.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): Launching later this year, enabling smoother entry with a 72-hour processing time.
The Digital Nomad Visa: Designed to attract long-term business travellers and remote-working professionals, boosting extended stays in South Africa.
“The government sets the conditions for airlines to thrive, but tourism growth is a shared responsibility,” Minister De Lille noted. “We must collaborate to increase air connectivity both internationally and domestically. Natural beauty alone won’t sustain our competitive edge—accessibility and seamless travel experiences are critical.”
Addressing Challenges and Unlocking Opportunities
The Tourism Route Development Marketing Plan has identified 25 key routes for expansion, aligning with strategic growth markets. Minister De Lille invited key industry representatives—including South African Airways, Airports Company South Africa, the Board of Airline Representatives South Africa (BARSA), Cape Town Air Access, and Gauteng Air Access—to discuss challenges in securing new routes and facilitating the efficient movement of passengers and cargo.
The discussion reinforced that resource optimization and strategic partnerships are fundamental to expanding air connectivity. While South Africa is already positioned as a prime transit hub, further efforts are required to streamline processes for travellers and airlines looking to establish new routes.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering growth in the aviation and tourism sectors,” Minister De Lille concluded. “Exciting opportunities lie ahead—forward ever, backward never!”
