Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille is pushing for direct flights between South Africa and India ahead of the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.

South Africa will co-host the tournament with Zimbabwe and Namibia in October and November next year.

De Lille said India and China had been identified as important markets for growing international tourist arrivals.

Government has held high-level discussions with South African Airways and private Indian carriers about establishing a possible direct route.

The talks also involve the departments of Transport and Trade, Industry and Competition.

De Lille said securing better air access was urgent because South Africa expects large numbers of Indian cricket supporters during the tournament.

India seen as major tourism market

India was the largest source of tourists among the original BRIC countries visiting South Africa in 2025.

Statistics South Africa recorded 69,680 Indian tourists during the year.

Brazil followed with 63,848 visitors, while Russia accounted for 41,708 and China for 37,902.

South Africa’s High Commissioner to India, Professor Anil Sooklal, said the absence of direct flights remained a disadvantage.

He said Indian businesses had repeatedly highlighted long transit times as an obstacle to stronger trade and tourism links.

World Cup used to attract longer stays

South African Tourism plans to use the Cricket World Cup as a wider tourism campaign.

De Lille said officials would monitor ticket sales and work with the private sector on packages encouraging supporters to arrive earlier or remain in the country after matches.

The campaign will target major cricket markets including India, England, Australia, Pakistan and New Zealand.

South Africa plans to promote attractions including wildlife, beaches, wine routes and local culture.

Community tourism initiatives are also expected to form part of the strategy.

Regional tourism push planned

Government is working with Home Affairs and Transport to improve the arrival process for international visitors and reduce airport congestion.

De Lille said South Africa would also work with Zimbabwe and Namibia on regional tourism packages linked to the tournament.

The aim is to position the World Cup as a major sports tourism opportunity rather than simply a cricket event.

No airline or launch date for a direct South Africa-India route has yet been confirmed.