African airlines have been gradually expanding their long haul services over the past few years, aiming to compete with established carriers such as Emirates and Qatar Airways. In this review, we will take a closer look at some of the best African airlines for long haul travel.
Ethiopian Airlines
Ethiopian Airlines is one of the most popular airlines in Africa, with a reputation for excellent service and a modern fleet of aircraft. It operates flights to more than 100 destinations worldwide, including long haul flights to Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Ethiopian Airlines was one of the first airlines in Africa to introduce lie-flat beds in business class, and their new Boeing 787 Dreamliner features spacious cabins, personal entertainment systems, and comfortable seats.
South African Airways
South African Airways is the national airline of South Africa and one of the largest airlines in Africa. It operates long haul flights to destinations in Europe, North America, Asia, and South America, and its business-class product is one of the best in Africa. The airline’s A330-300 aircraft feature lie-flat beds, personal entertainment systems, and USB ports. The airline also offers an extensive range of in-flight meals, including vegetarian and special dietary options.
Kenya Airways
Kenya Airways is the flag carrier of Kenya and operates long haul flights to destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. The airline has a modern fleet of Boeing 787 and 777 aircraft, featuring lie-flat beds in business class, personal entertainment systems, and in-flight Wi-Fi. Kenya Airways also offers a range of in-flight meals, including African and international options, and special meals for passengers with dietary requirements.
EgyptAir
EgyptAir is the national airline of Egypt and operates long haul flights to destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. The airline’s business class product features lie-flat beds, personal entertainment systems, and in-flight Wi-Fi, and its fleet includes modern Boeing 787 and Airbus A330 aircraft. EgyptAir also offers a range of in-flight meals, including Egyptian and international options, and special meals for passengers with dietary requirements.
RwandAir
RwandAir is the national airline of Rwanda and operates long haul flights to destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The airline’s fleet includes modern Airbus A330 and A330neo aircraft, featuring lie-flat beds in business class, personal entertainment systems, and USB ports. RwandAir also offers a range of in-flight meals, including African and international options, and special meals for passengers with dietary requirements.
In conclusion, African airlines have come a long way in recent years, and many now offer world-class service and amenities on long haul flights. Ethiopian Airlines and South African Airways are both well-established carriers with excellent business class products and modern fleets, while Kenya Airways and EgyptAir are also worth considering for long haul travel. RwandAir is a smaller airline but offers a high-quality experience for passengers, with comfortable seating and a range of in-flight amenities. Ultimately, the choice of airline will depend on your specific travel needs, but any of these airlines would be a good option for long haul travel to or from Africa.
