Durban’s main airport, King Shaka International Airport (DUR), serves as the gateway to the city’s beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and safari excursions. While it’s smaller than Johannesburg’s OR Tambo, it still offers international connections and convenient access to the KwaZulu-Natal region.

🛫 Key International Routes & Airlines

Because Durban’s airport is not a major long-haul hub, most international flights arrive with one stop or via regional connections — but there are still solid options:

🌍 Middle East & Gulf Connections

Dubai (DXB) – Emirates operates daily flights between Dubai and Durban, offering excellent connectivity from Europe, Asia, and beyond with a single stop in the UAE.

🇪🇺 European Flights (via 1 Stop)
Many major European carriers offer international flights to Durban via 1-stop itineraries through hubs such as Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, London, or Doha. Popular airlines for these long-haul routes include:

Lufthansa — offers flights from Spain (e.g., Málaga or Palma de Mallorca) to Durban with connections through its German hubs.

Brussels Airlines — another option for travelers connecting to Durban from various European cities.

British Airways, Qatar Airways, Air France, Swiss and others also frequently feature in routing options from European capitals to South Africa, typically with one stop at their major hubs.

🌍 Other Global Connections

Flights from Asia, the United States, and Oceania generally involve 1- or 2-stop connections with major airlines such as Qatar Airways, Emirates, British Airways, or alliances that transit through gateway cities like Doha, Dubai, London, or Frankfurt.

🧳 Things to Keep in Mind

Flight duration & stops: Direct flights to Durban from outside Africa are rare, so expect at least one connection. Total travel time varies depending on layovers.

Best route hubs: Consider flying via Dubai (DXB), Doha (DOH), or major European hubs like Frankfurt (FRA) and London Heathrow (LHR) for smoother connections.

🔍 How to Book Your Flight

Once you’ve decided on your preferred route, dates, and airline, a great way to compare prices and secure your tickets is through this flight booking platform:
👉 https://www.virtual-world.pl/flight-bookings-1
— you can search, compare and reserve international flights into Durban easily.