Summary: Airlink began twice-weekly direct flights between Johannesburg (JNB) and Nacala (MNC) on 2 February 2026, using the 37-seat Embraer ERJ 135 to link South Africa’s commercial capital with Mozambique’s northern beaches and the Nacala Corridor.

Airlink has introduced direct Johannesburg to Nacala flights, commencing service on February 2, 2026. The twice-weekly route aims to enhance travel and business links between Johannesburg and northern Mozambique, providing a straightforward option for tourists and professionals seeking access to Nacala’s coastline and economic hubs.

Two Distinct Destinations, One Convenient Link

The new service connects two very different travel experiences. Johannesburg offers an energetic urban scene and serves as a gateway to safari destinations, while Nacala provides tranquil, largely undeveloped beaches and emerging opportunities in trade and logistics. The route caters to a spectrum of travellers, from leisure visitors seeking quiet coastlines to business travellers engaging with the Nacala Corridor.

Johannesburg: A Regional Business and Cultural Hub

Johannesburg, often referred to as the City of Gold, is South Africa’s largest economic centre. Visitors come for its museums, galleries and markets as well as for business travel and convenient connections to safari reserves. The direct Airlink link makes it easier for passengers in Johannesburg to reach northern Mozambique without multiple stops.

Nacala: Untouched Beaches and Growing Eco-Tourism

Nacala is gaining recognition for its secluded beaches, clear waters and marine life, appealing to travellers seeking quieter coastal destinations. Local markets and traditional cuisine add cultural depth for visitors. In addition to tourism, Nacala’s position on the Nacala Corridor underscores its strategic value for logistics, mining and agriculture supply chains in northern Mozambique.

Flight Times, Frequency and Aircraft

  • Frequency: Twice weekly service between Johannesburg (JNB) and Nacala (MNC).
  • Flight 4Z 236: Departs Johannesburg at 10:30, arrives Nacala at 13:10.
  • Flight 4Z 237: Departs Nacala at 13:45, arrives Johannesburg at 16:35.
  • Aircraft: Embraer ERJ 135 in a single-class 37-seat configuration, cruise speed 833 km/h (Mach 0.78) and range of 3,240 km.

The schedule is timed to facilitate connections with other Airlink domestic and regional services, giving travellers flexible onward options across Southern Africa. The ERJ 135’s size and range make it suitable for short regional hops while keeping operating costs efficient for the carrier.

Airlink regional jet on runway with coastal scenery representing Nacala and Johannesburg connection
Airlink's regional service links Johannesburg with Nacala, opening easier access to Mozambique's northern coast and trade corridor

Economic and Trade Benefits: The Nacala Corridor

Beyond tourism, the route supports business travel into the Nacala Corridor, an important logistics and export route for mining, agriculture and regional trade. Improved air connectivity simplifies movement for professionals, investors and logistics partners, potentially encouraging increased investment and more efficient business operations in northern Mozambique.

What This Means for Travellers and the Industry

For leisure travellers, the direct service reduces travel time and makes Nacala’s beaches more accessible as an alternative to busier Mozambican resorts. For business travellers, the flights offer a faster, single-connection option to a growing economic zone. For Airlink and regional aviation, the route demonstrates continued focus on strengthening intra-African connectivity to serve both tourism and commerce.

So what? The new Johannesburg–Nacala service simplifies travel between two complementary markets: South Africa’s urban and business hub and Mozambique’s quiet coastal and logistical centre. Travellers gain quicker, more convenient access to northern Mozambique, while businesses benefit from improved linkages that could accelerate trade and investment in the region.