Airlink (South Africa)
Southern Africa’s leading full-service regional airline with an extensive premium network and industry-best reliability.
Company Overview
Airlink is a privately-owned, premium regional airline based in Johannesburg, South Africa. It serves over 45 destinations across Southern Africa with a strong reputation for punctuality and reliability. The airline connects under-served towns and major hubs, positioning itself as a key player in the regional market.
Leadership & Employees
Airlink (South Africa) employs approximately 1,800 people globally.
Key Leadership:
- CEO: Rodger Foster
Employee Statistics:
- Total Employees: ~1,800 globally
- Pilots: ~350
- Flight Attendants: ~400
Equipment & Technology
Airlink maintains a modern fleet of over 65 aircraft, including the latest Embraer E1 and E2 jets optimized for regional routes. The airline has invested in advanced technology such as Accelya’s FLX Select for contemporary retailing and uses collaborative inventory planning with Embraer for enhanced supply chain management. Its maintenance infrastructure is supported by industry-leading systems for reliability and rapid turnaround. Future-focused innovations include ongoing fleet renewal and IATA environmental certifications to further improve operational and service excellence.
Fleet Composition:
Total Aircraft: 65
| Aircraft Type | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Embraer ERJ 135 | 1 |
| Embraer ERJ 140 | 1 |
| Embraer ERJ 145 | 1 |
| Embraer E170 | 1 |
| Embraer E190 | 1 |
| Embraer E195 | 1 |
| Embraer E195-E2 | 1 |
Average Fleet Age: 14.2 years
Warehouses & Logistics Hubs
Airlink supports a wide range of logistics and supply chain services for airlines and aviation partners, focusing on seamless cargo management and spare parts logistics. The airline’s main hub at Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport is equipped for efficient hub operations, rapid ground support, and innovative logistics solutions. Integrated technology ensures fast cargo handling and supports the needs of other carriers. Strategic logistics partnerships and a commitment to operational excellence further strengthen Airlink's role as a logistics leader in the region.
Key Hub Locations:
| Location | Type | Facilities |
|---|---|---|
| Johannesburg OR Tambo (JNB) | main | Main hub facilities |
| Cape Town (CPT) | secondary | Secondary hub facilities |
| Durban King Shaka (DUR) | secondary | Secondary hub facilities |
Certifications & Compliance:
- • IOSA
- • IATA Environmental Assessment
Global Locations & Network
Airlink provides a robust global network by connecting more than 45 destinations in 15 African countries, including islands like Madagascar and St Helena. Its strategic focus on underserved routes strengthens intra-African air connectivity and links remote communities with main economic centers. The airline's growing international partnerships, including a recent codeshare with Turkish Airlines, extend its market presence beyond Africa. Its regional aviation logistics, partnerships, and integrated solutions offer competitive advantages for both passenger and cargo flows. Alliances with multiple carriers and innovation in supply chain solutions make Airlink an essential hub operative. The company’s ongoing commitment to reliability and strategic expansion supports its role in connecting global supply chains into and across Africa.
Partners & Alliances:
Turkish Airlines
codeshare
Carrier Partners & Alliances
Airlink provides a robust global network by connecting more than 45 destinations in 15 African countries, including islands like Madagascar and St Helena. Its strategic focus on underserved routes strengthens intra-African air connectivity and links remote communities with main economic centers. The airline's growing international partnerships, including a recent codeshare with Turkish Airlines, extend its market presence beyond Africa. Its regional aviation logistics, partnerships, and integrated solutions offer competitive advantages for both passenger and cargo flows. Alliances with multiple carriers and innovation in supply chain solutions make Airlink an essential hub operative. The company’s ongoing commitment to reliability and strategic expansion supports its role in connecting global supply chains into and across Africa.
Strategic Partnerships:
| Partner | Type |
|---|---|
| Turkish Airlines | codeshare |
Financial Metrics & Stability
Airlink maintains a strong market position as Southern Africa's most consistently punctual and reliable regional carrier. The airline has seen steady revenue growth in recent years with a sustained focus on profitability and efficient operations. As a privately-owned company, it reinvests in fleet modernization, technology, and service upgrades to support future growth and maintain financial resilience.
Key Financial Metrics:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Annual Revenue | $0.4 billion |
| Profit Margin | 5% |
| Net Profit | $20.0 million |
| Financial Year | 2024 |
Service Portfolio
Airlink offers a full-service passenger experience with multiple cabin classes and complimentary onboard amenities on all flights. Its cargo division manages a variety of logistics, including shipment of urgent freight and specialized cargo services for regional partners. The airline supports aviation partners with extensive ground handling, maintenance, and spare parts supply solutions. Through integrated services and collaborative solutions, Airlink provides value across the aviation ecosystem. Key differentiators include premium lounges, loyalty benefits, and a reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction.
Our Services:
Business Class
Passenger Service: Business Class
Economy Class
Passenger Service: Economy Class
General cargo
Cargo Service: General cargo
Express/priority freight
Cargo Service: Express/priority freight
Specialized and urgent shipments
Cargo Service: Specialized and urgent shipments
Aircraft maintenance
Additional Service: Aircraft maintenance
Ground handling
Additional Service: Ground handling
Aviation training
Additional Service: Aviation training
Products & Services
Core products and services offered by Airlink (South Africa).
Business Class
Passenger Service: Business Class
Cargo Logistics
Shipment of urgent freight and specialized cargo services for regional partners
Ground Handling
Extensive ground handling solutions
Maintenance
Maintenance solutions
Spare Parts Supply
Spare parts supply solutions
Tools & Resources
Tools, portals, and resources for Airlink (South Africa).
Latest News & Updates
Recent developments and updates for Airlink (South Africa).
Exceptional growth in Africa
While the global cargo market struggles, Africa is defying expectations, with projected growth of 6 percent in 2025—well above global forecasts. This isn't a
Freight Opportunities For African Airlines
Operators are stepping up moves to capitalize on opportunities within the African air cargo market, buoyed by strong momentum since the second half of 2025.
Air cargo enabled $157 billion in frontloaded trade and supported AI growth in 2025
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) today released a report showing air cargo's vital role in sustaining global trade and supporting economic growth in 2025 amid
Buyers' Guides
Guides and reference material related to Airlink (South Africa).
Importing with Airlink (South Africa)
Step-by-step guide to importing cargo using Airlink (South Africa).
Exporting with Airlink (South Africa)
Key considerations when exporting through Airlink (South Africa).
Airlink (South Africa) Compliance Checklist
Documentation and regulatory requirements.
Data & Reports
Official statistics, research reports, and data tracking for Airlink (South Africa).
IATA — Air Freight Statistics
Monthly and annual air cargo market statistics.
DOT BTS — Air Freight Data
Bureau of Transportation Statistics air cargo data.
FAA — Aviation Data & Statistics
Federal Aviation Administration official data.
World Bank — Air Transport Statistics
Global air freight volume and logistics performance.
Seabury Cargo — Market Outlook
Air cargo market trend reports.
Location & Maps
Find Airlink (South Africa) on popular mapping services.
For More Info
Third-party resources, government portals, ratings, and more.
Government & Resources
Financial & Investor Relations
Frequently Asked Questions
Common inquiries about operations and logistics at Airlink (South Africa).
What is Airlink and what type of services do they offer?
Airlink is a South African airline primarily focused on domestic and regional routes, but they also operate international air freight services. They offer a range of cargo solutions, including general cargo and temperature-controlled transport, connecting businesses to key markets across Africa and beyond.
How does using Airlink for air freight impact customs clearance?
Airlink works closely with South African customs authorities to streamline the import process. They handle documentation and liaison with customs officials, minimizing delays and ensuring efficient clearance of your goods. This integrated approach reduces the complexity of importing cargo into South Africa.
What kind of tracking and visibility options does Airlink provide for my exported goods?
Airlink offers comprehensive tracking and visibility solutions for your exported shipments. You'll receive real-time updates on your cargo's location, including scans and notifications at key checkpoints. This proactive monitoring allows you to manage your supply chain effectively and gain peace of mind.
