Could a direct flight between Mallorca and South Africa be on the cards? Spanish carrier Air Europa is reportedly exploring the possibility of flying direct bewteen Spain and South Africa, with plans said to be in the "preliminary phase," according to company sources cited by Europa Press. The discussions mark an intriguing step toward expanding the airline’s reach beyond Europe and the Americas.
The potential route follows recent authorisation from South Africa’s Ministry of Transport, which granted Air Europa permission to operate three weekly flights out of nine available slots. The approval, shared publicly by the USO trade union on social media, has fuelled speculation about the airline’s next strategic move.
Union representatives have expressed optimism about the development, calling it a "very positive" opportunity for Air Europa’s international expansion. They note, however, that while securing route concessions is a crucial milestone, it doesn’t automatically mean that operations will begin immediately. Several logistical and commercial factors still need to be assessed.
Air Europa’s cautious tone reflects this complexity. The airline is said to be evaluating the operational feasibility of the potential connection, which could include studying passenger demand, airport infrastructure, and long-haul fleet capacity. Such considerations will determine whether the proposed flights can become a reality.
If approved, the route would represent a major leap for Air Europa’s network, extending its footprint into the African continent for the first time.