South African regional and domestic airline Airlink commenced operating its new Cape Town-Mauritius route on Friday. The service is being operated twice a week, on Tuesdays and Fridays. Previously, Capetonians wishing to travel to and from the Indian Ocean island country had to stage through Johannesburg.

"Our new flagship aircraft, the [Embraer] E195-E2, makes it possible for Airlink to conveniently connect Cape Town with Mauritius,” stated Airlink CEO de Villiers Engelbrecht. “The route is an important addition to Airlink's network and strengthens the connection between these two important tourism and business markets."

Mauritius has become an important centre for business, especially for financial services and business process outsourcing, while more than 140 South African businesses are operating there, in the agricultural, consumer goods, ICT and manufacturing sectors. It is also a major tourist market, with South Africa being among its most important source markets. The new Airlink service has been designed to benefit both business and tourist travellers to the island.

The flights from Cape Town to Mauritius are coded 4Z 350 and depart at 10:05 local time. The return flights are coded 4Z 351 and leave Mauritius at 18:15 local time.

Airlink’s E195-E2s are configured to carry 124 passengers, of which 12 are in business class. For the first time for Airlink, the business class seats are arranged in a staggered pattern, increasing their personal space. The economy class seats are arranged in a 2+2 pattern, meaning there are no middle seats, only aisle and window seats. (No Airlink airliner has middle seats.)

“All customers also benefit from generous legroom, large eye-level windows, ample overhead storage and power outlets,” affirmed the airline. “Onboard, customers are treated to complimentary meals and beverages, with Airlink’s cabin configuration providing generous legroom.”

Passengers travelling on discounted economy class tickets receive a 20 kg free luggage allowance, while those travelling on full-fare economy tickets get a 30 kg allowance. All passengers have a 15 kg allowance for sporting equipment.  

Airlink was founded in 1992 and now has a fleet of more than 70 modern jet airliners. Its network now extends across South Africa, Southern and East Africa, Indian Ocean islands and St Helena in the South Atlantic.