United Airlines Expands Cape Town – U.S. Flights and Upgrades Digital Travel Experience
Boosting Cape Town – Newark Connectivity Ahead of Peak Season
Starting 29 October 2025, United Airlines will expand its Cape Town–New York/Newark (EWR) service from three to four weekly flights. This upgrade comes just before the Northern Hemisphere’s winter and South Africa’s festive season, providing more travel options during one of the busiest periods of the year.
United will also balance its Johannesburg flights, reducing Johannesburg – Newark services from seven to six per week and transferring capacity to Cape Town. The move reflects United’s commitment to meeting seasonal demand while giving South African travellers better access to the U.S. East Coast.
Cape Town–New York: A Key Growth Route
United Airlines’ Cape Town – New York route continues to play a pivotal role for South African travellers seeking direct U.S. access. Since its launch, the route has grown in popularity among leisure, business, and student travellers who value avoiding stopovers in Johannesburg or Europe.
Adding flight frequency strengthens Cape Town’s position as a vital transatlantic hub while signalling robust demand for U.S. destinations. Analysts view this expansion as both a response to rising passenger traffic and recognition of South Africa’s renewed global travel importance post-pandemic.
Smarter Travel Through Technology
Alongside schedule adjustments, United has enhanced its mobile app, making it a central tool for modern travellers. The app now offers mobile check-in, boarding passes, baggage tracking, and real-time updates, helping South Africans handle U.S. travel more smoothly.
The “Travel-Ready Center” allows passengers to upload visas and documents in advance, reducing airport stress. With features such as gate maps, inflight streaming, and instant alerts, the app provides end-to-end support – giving passengers control and peace of mind throughout their journey.
United Airlines South Africa – U.S. Flight Schedule (from 29 October 2025)
| Route | Frequency | Operating Days |
|---|---|---|
| Cape Town – New York/Newark (EWR) | 4 flights per week | Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday |
| Cape Town – Washington DC (IAD) | 3 flights per week | Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday |
| Johannesburg – New York/Newark (EWR) | 6 flights per week | Daily, except Saturday |