Delta Expands Codeshare with Virgin Atlantic to Connect the US and South Africa

Delta’s Code to Appear on Virgin’s South Africa Routes

Delta will soon place its flight code on Virgin Atlantic’s direct routes from London Heathrow to Johannesburg and Cape Town. Starting August 7, travellers can book Virgin’s Johannesburg service under Delta’s code, making planning and connecting more convenient for passengers.

From October 13, Delta’s code will also appear on Virgin’s Cape Town flights, for the winter season through April 2026. The expanded codeshare strengthens Delta’s partnership with Virgin and adds more options for passengers flying between the US and South Africa.

While Delta already operates nonstop services to South Africa, these additions allow it to tap into new demand via London Heathrow. Passengers from Atlanta, New York, and Seattle can now easily connect to Virgin flights through Delta’s multiple daily UK services.

Virgin’s South African Flights Boost Seasonal Access

Virgin Atlantic flies year-round to Johannesburg and offers seasonal service to Cape Town using its efficient Boeing 787-9 aircraft. Cape Town flights resume October 13, with departures at 22:30 and arrivals at 12:05, catering to overnight travellers from the UK.

Johannesburg flights depart nightly at 19:40 and land at 08:40, timed perfectly for morning arrivals and business or leisure plans. Virgin’s 787-9s seat 192 in economy, 35 in premium, and 31 in upper class, providing a wide range of comfort choices onboard.

With over 5,200 nautical miles to Cape Town, these are Virgin’s longest nonstop services, competing directly with British Airways. BA currently flies 17 times weekly to Johannesburg and 14 times to Cape Town, intensifying competition in this premium market.

A SkyTeam Alliance That Delivers Global Reach

Delta and Virgin Atlantic, both SkyTeam members, operate a joint venture across the Atlantic, offering shared benefits and seamless travel. The carriers share Terminal 3 at London Heathrow, easing connections for passengers transferring between US and South African destinations.

Virgin serves 11 US cities with 184 weekly flights, while Delta flies to three UK airports from seven major American gateways. SkyMiles and Flying Club members earn and redeem miles across both carriers, gaining access to lounges and priority services.

Delta currently offers 68 weekly flights to Heathrow from hubs like Atlanta, JFK, and Boston, ensuring robust transatlantic connectivity. With more flights, new codeshares, and shared loyalty perks, this partnership continues redefining the modern long-haul travel experience.