How Long Are Flights To Africa?
If you’re looking to plan a dream vacation or important business trip to Africa, one of the first things you’ll want to figure out is how long it will take to get there. With over 50 countries and a massive geographic area, flight times to the continent can vary widely depending on your destination.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Flights from major hub cities in North America and Europe to Africa generally take 8-15 hours depending on your destination country and layovers.
The shortest flights are to North African countries like Morocco and Egypt, while flights to South Africa can take 12 hours or more.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down average flight times from different departure cities to destinations across Africa. We’ll also provide tips for shortening your travel time and list some of the longest nonstop routes available.
Flight Times by Region
North Africa
When it comes to flying to North Africa, the flight times can vary depending on your departure location. For example, a direct flight from New York to Cairo, Egypt typically takes around 10 hours. However, if you are traveling from London to Casablanca, Morocco, the flight time is usually around 3 hours and 30 minutes.
These flight times are subject to change based on factors such as weather conditions and airline schedules.
West Africa
Flights to West Africa can be quite lengthy due to the distance involved. For instance, a non-stop flight from New York to Lagos, Nigeria can take approximately 12 hours. On the other hand, if you are traveling from Paris to Dakar, Senegal, the flight time is usually around 5 hours and 30 minutes.
It’s important to note that these flight times are approximate and can vary depending on the specific route and airline.
East Africa
When flying to East Africa, the flight times can vary depending on your departure location and the specific country you are traveling to. For example, a non-stop flight from Dubai to Nairobi, Kenya typically takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes.
On the other hand, if you are traveling from London to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the flight time can be around 8 hours. It’s always a good idea to check with the airline for the most up-to-date information regarding flight times.
Central Africa
Flight times to Central Africa can vary depending on your departure location and the specific country you are traveling to. For instance, a direct flight from Brussels to Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo can take approximately 8 hours.
On the other hand, if you are traveling from Johannesburg, South Africa to Libreville, Gabon, the flight time is usually around 6 hours and 30 minutes. It’s important to keep in mind that these flight times are approximate and can be subject to change.
Southern Africa
When it comes to flying to Southern Africa, the flight times can vary depending on your departure location and the specific country you are traveling to. For example, a non-stop flight from New York to Johannesburg, South Africa typically takes around 15 hours.
On the other hand, if you are traveling from London to Cape Town, South Africa, the flight time is usually around 11 hours. These flight times are subject to change based on factors such as airline schedules and layovers.
Flight Times from Major Hubs
From New York City
Flights from New York City to Africa can vary in duration depending on the specific destination. On average, a direct flight from New York to Johannesburg, South Africa takes approximately 15 hours. However, flights to other African cities such as Cairo, Egypt or Lagos, Nigeria may have longer or shorter travel times.
It’s always best to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date flight times.
From London
London serves as a major hub for flights to Africa, offering numerous connections to various African destinations. For example, a direct flight from London to Nairobi, Kenya typically takes around 9 hours. Other popular routes from London include flights to Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Lagos.
Keep in mind that flight times can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic.
From Paris
Paris is another important hub for flights to Africa, providing convenient connections to several African cities. For instance, a non-stop flight from Paris to Dakar, Senegal generally takes about 6 hours. Other common routes from Paris include flights to Algiers, Morocco, and Abidjan.
It’s worth noting that flight durations may differ depending on the specific airline and the chosen route.
From Dubai
Dubai, as a major transit hub, offers numerous flights to Africa. For example, a direct flight from Dubai to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia typically takes around 4 hours. Other popular routes from Dubai include flights to Nairobi, Johannesburg, and Cairo.
It’s important to consider that flight times may vary depending on factors such as layovers and airline schedules.
From Beijing
Flights from Beijing to Africa generally involve a layover in a major hub city such as Dubai or Istanbul. The total travel time will depend on the specific routing and duration of layovers. For instance, a typical journey from Beijing to Cape Town, South Africa can take anywhere from 15 to 20 hours.
It’s advisable to check with airlines for the most accurate and updated flight times.
How to Shorten Your Flight Time
When planning a trip to Africa, one of the factors to consider is the duration of the flight. Long flights can be exhausting and time-consuming, so finding ways to shorten your flight time can make a big difference.
Here are a few strategies to help you reduce your time in the air and make the most of your African adventure.
Fly Direct When Possible
One of the most effective ways to shorten your flight time to Africa is by opting for a direct flight whenever possible. Direct flights eliminate the need for layovers, reducing travel time and minimizing the chances of delays or missed connections.
While direct flights may cost a bit more, they can save you valuable hours spent waiting in airports. Check with airlines that offer direct flights to your desired African destination and compare prices to find the best option for you.
Strategically Choose a Layover City
If a direct flight is not available or if you are looking to save some money, choosing a layover city strategically can help you reduce your overall travel time. Look for layover cities that are geographically closer to your destination in Africa.
For example, if you are traveling to South Africa, consider layovers in cities like Dubai or Addis Ababa, which are well-connected to major African airports. This way, you can break up your journey and potentially find shorter layover times.
Consider an Overnight Layover
Another option to shorten your flight time is to consider an overnight layover. Instead of rushing through a short layover, you can choose to stay overnight in a layover city and continue your journey the next day. This gives you the opportunity to explore a new city and break up the long journey.
Additionally, it can also help you combat jet lag by allowing you to rest and adjust to the time zone before reaching your final destination in Africa.
Fly from a Nearby Hub City
If you live in a city with multiple airports, consider flying from a nearby hub city to Africa. Hub cities are major airline hubs with numerous flight options, often offering more direct flights to various African destinations.
By flying from a hub city, you may be able to find more convenient flight schedules and potentially reduce your overall travel time. Compare flight options from different airports in your area to find the best route for your journey.
Remember, when planning your trip to Africa, it’s essential to consider all available options to shorten your flight time. Whether it’s booking a direct flight, strategically choosing a layover city, considering an overnight layover, or flying from a nearby hub city, these strategies can help you make the most of your time in the air and start your African adventure sooner.
The Longest Nonstop Routes to Africa
New York to Johannesburg
One of the longest nonstop flights to Africa is from New York to Johannesburg. This route covers a distance of approximately 7,966 miles and takes around 15 hours and 30 minutes. It is operated by several major airlines, including South African Airways and Delta Airlines.
Passengers on this route can enjoy in-flight amenities such as entertainment systems, comfortable seating, and delicious meals.
Atlanta to Johannesburg
Another lengthy nonstop flight to Africa is from Atlanta to Johannesburg. This route covers a distance of approximately 8,439 miles and takes around 16 hours and 30 minutes. Delta Airlines operates this route, providing passengers with a comfortable and enjoyable flying experience.
With modern aircraft and attentive cabin crew, passengers can relax and make the most of their journey to Africa.
Dubai to Johannesburg
If you’re traveling from the Middle East, one of the longest nonstop routes to Africa is from Dubai to Johannesburg. This route covers a distance of approximately 4,198 miles and takes around 8 hours and 30 minutes. Emirates, the flagship carrier of the United Arab Emirates, operates this route.
Passengers can expect luxurious amenities, spacious seating, and world-class service throughout their flight.
London to Cape Town
For those traveling from Europe, a lengthy nonstop route to Africa is from London to Cape Town. This route covers a distance of approximately 6,000 miles and takes around 12 hours. British Airways operates this route, offering passengers a comfortable and convenient way to reach the vibrant city of Cape Town.
Passengers can enjoy a range of amenities, including in-flight entertainment, delicious meals, and attentive service.
It’s important to note that flight durations may vary depending on factors such as wind speeds, air traffic, and aircraft performance. It’s always a good idea to check with the airline for the most up-to-date information regarding flight times.
Conclusion
With its massive size and geographical diversity, there is no single answer for how long it takes to fly to Africa. Flight times can range from as short as 5 hours up to 16 or more hours depending on your departure city and specific destination.
The best way to maximize your time on the ground is to fly nonstop or plan strategic layovers when required. Use this guide to set realistic expectations and make the most of your upcoming African adventure!
