CAPE TOWN – Air France has announced it will extend its successful seasonal Cape Town-Paris route by two months, now running through to 3 May 2026, following unprecedented demand from both local and international travellers.
The direct service, which was initially scheduled to end in March 2026, has proved incredibly popular with Capetonians seeking European connections and international visitors drawn to the Mother City’s summer attractions.
Daily departures offer convenient timing
The extension means travellers will have additional time to take advantage of the convenient daily service, with flight AF0871 departing Cape Town each morning at 08:50 and arriving in Paris at 19:20. The return service, AF0890, leaves Paris at 18:30, landing in Cape Town at 06:45 the following day.
The route operates using Air France’s state-of-the-art Airbus A350 aircraft, offering passengers what the airline describes as “French elegance” with champagne served across all cabins and refined dining inspired by France’s culinary heritage.
Strong appetite for European connections
Wilson Tauro, Country Manager Southern Africa at Air France-KLM, said the extension reflected Cape Town’s enduring appeal as a destination.
“Cape Town remains one of the most inspiring destinations in our network, and we are thrilled to see such strong demand for our seasonal Paris-Cape Town route,” Tauro said.
“This extension not only reflects the continued appetite for travel between Cape Town and Europe but also reinforces Air France’s commitment to connecting South Africans to the world with style, comfort, and efficiency.”
Perfect timing for both markets
The timing works particularly well for European visitors escaping winter weather for Cape Town’s sunshine and beaches, whilst also providing South Africans with seamless connectivity to Air France’s extensive global network for onward travel across Europe and beyond.
The route extension aligns with Air France’s ongoing investment in the South African market and demonstrates the airline’s confidence in the country’s tourism recovery and growing international appeal.
