Airlink and Qatar Airways are expanding their existing codeshare partnership to include Doha from 31 August 2026, a move that marks the first long-haul destination added to the agreement between the two carriers.
What the Codeshare Covers
Under the expanded arrangement, Qatar Airways will place its QR code on Airlink flights operating between Doha Hamad International Airport and three South African gateways:
- Johannesburg OR Tambo — up to double-daily service
- Cape Town International — up to double-daily service
- Durban King Shaka — daily service
The Doha routes will be operated by Qatar Airways using Airbus A350 widebody aircraft, with Airlink feeder services connecting onward to regional South African destinations. The existing codeshare covers domestic routes within South Africa.
Why This Matters for Travellers
The expansion gives travellers arriving in Doha via Airlink direct access to Qatar Airways’ extensive long-haul network across Asia, Europe, and the Americas, all on a single ticket. Travellers connecting through Doha will pass through Hamad International Airport, which has consistently been rated among the world’s best airports for transit facilities and lounge access.
For those flying into South Africa, the codeshare means Qatar Airways passengers can book through to smaller regional airports beyond Johannesburg, Cape Town, or Durban without separate domestic bookings.
Booking and Connections
Tickets on the expanded codeshare routes will be available through Qatar Airways’ website and travel agents from the date of announcement. Frequent flyers enrolled in Qatar Airways’ Privilege Club programme will be able to earn and redeem Avios miles on Airlink-operated codeshare segments.
The launch coincides with South Africa’s spring shoulder season, traditionally one of the better periods to visit for wildlife viewing without the peak summer prices. Game reserves in KwaZulu-Natal, including areas around Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, typically see good animal activity as temperatures begin to warm.
Getting Between Airports
Most international travellers arriving from Doha land at OR Tambo International in Johannesburg. We cover transport options in our airport transfers guide, which outlines shared shuttle services, private transfers, and the Gautrain rail link to the city centre.
For a broader overview of what South Africa offers as a destination, including regions, seasons, and visa requirements, see our South Africa travel guide.
The Airlink–Qatar Airways codeshare expansion is one of the more significant connectivity developments for South Africa in 2026, reducing the friction of reaching the country from major European, Asian, and Middle Eastern hubs via a single-ticket journey.