Delta and United seek more flexible South African flight schedules

"United’s request for year-round flexibility for one weekly frequency is comparable to Delta’s request for flexibility for two weekly frequencies for peak season," stated Thorsten Lettnin, Director of Sales at United Airlines.

United also seeks approval from the DOT to operate all seven weekly frequencies on a route starting in Newark, stopping in Johannesburg and Cape Town, before returning to New Jersey if conditions permit. Previously, Delta received permission from the DOT for similar eighth freedom flights originating at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL).

If approved, United plans an additional Tuesday flight from Newark to Cape Town with a Wednesday return itinerary. The company argues that granting this flexibility serves public interest by enhancing service during peak seasons and improving connecting opportunities at Cape Town.

Data indicates that the last US airline operated an eighth freedom flight within South Africa in March 2023 when Delta flew a four-week itinerary from Atlanta via Johannesburg to Cape Town.

Currently, United operates three weekly flights alongside daily services from Newark to both Cape Town and Johannesburg. Similarly, Delta maintains an identical schedule between Atlanta and these South African cities.

Delta also highlighted public interest benefits when requesting additional flexibility on February 14: "Delta’s proposed service will allow Delta to enhance its service to Cape Town in the highest-demand months, directly benefiting customers."

Both airlines are seeking adjustments without exceeding awarded frequencies between the US and South Africa.