SAA’s decision no longer to fly directly between Cape Town and London is bizarre, considering that tourism is on the up.

"The Cape Town International Airport received over 215 000 international travellers in the fourth quarter of 2011, which is a year-on-year increase of 14.5%, with regional and domestic arrivals also improving".

Their primary reason is because the direct route is not profitable anymore. Which is odd because people, on radio and in social circles, often comment on how full the flights are. And because Western Cape tourism has taken off. Despite anecdotes, I guess SAA need to act like a business (for a change) and are right for prioritising the bottom line.

Nevertheless, there are other (direct) options available. Unless, of course, you are happy to fly via Johannesburg for the same price and an extra four hours.