Emirates launches service to Durban

The launch of Emirates' flights to Durban opens a new chapter in the economic development of South Africa's Kwa-Zulu Natal province, the airline and regional officials told reporters.

Speaking at a media breakfast in Durban, jointly hosted by the Kwa-Zulu-Natal Tourism Authority and Emirates, Nigel Page, the airline's Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations, Americas & Africa, said: "We know as a manufacturing base, the province is very significant in terms of South Africa's GDP. Emirates is effectively opening the door to the world with its daily service into Dubai and our vast route network beyond."

Emirates begins flights to Durban International Airport on October 1st and will be the only carrier flying international routes on a daily basis out of the city.

Tourism KwaZulu-Natal CEO Ndabo Khoza, said: "With the vision of TKZN to position the province as Africa's leading tourism destination, nationally and internationally, the arrival of Emirates takes us closer to that goal. The is a major landmark for the region and we should firmly embrace the opportunity it presents. No longer does this province have to depend on neighbouring international gateways. We will have our own gateway to the world."

From October 1st, Flight EK775 will depart Dubai at 0445hrs, arriving at Durban International Airport at 1130hrs. EK 776, leaves Durban at 1300hrs and gets into Dubai at 2340hrs. A 278-seat Airbus A330-200 in a two-class configuration will be deployed on the route. The flight time is around 8hrs 45 minutes.