Blow for KZN as British Airways suspends Durban, London routes
KZN's Department of Economic Development and the Dube Trade Port say the decision by British Airways -- to suspend direct flights between Durban and London -- will hamper the growth of international air services in the region, post Covid-19.
The airline made the announcement on Tuesday, saying these 2021 plans include staff retrenchments and the suspension of 13 other international routes.
Turkish Airlines has also decided to suspend its two weekly flights to Durban, Cape Town, and Johannesburg over the December and January holiday period.
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Durban Direct Co-Chair, Hamish Erskine says while the news is disappointing - they understand the reasons for the decision.
He says the travel industry's been dealt a severe blow by Covid-19 and global restrictions.
"However, the reality on the ground is that Durban remains connected with London by flights from Emirates which recently increased it's frequency to four times a week and Qatar Airways.
"At the moment, we have two strong hub carriers in the form of Qatar and Emirates that are servicing Durban and collectively connecting KZN to over 250 destinations around the world right now."
