Global Aviation Operations (GE, Johannesburg O.R. Tambo) has confirmed it is finalising a charter contract to provide an aircraft for seven-day tourism packages between the French department of Réunion in the Indian Ocean and Durban King Shaka in South Africa, currently being marketed to launch on February 27, 2026.
The airline told ch-aviation its role is "limited and clearly defined", stressing that the operation would strictly be a charter service and remains subject to regulatory clearances, commercial alignment, and final approvals. Global would provide the aircraft - to be finalised - and operational delivery.
According to South African news website Independent Online, the initiative is being driven by Durban-based stakeholders seeking to stimulate tourism and improve direct connectivity with Réunion.
Fly Vetiv’Air, described by Global as a "destination-driven initiative", is leading the market-development effort in partnership with marketer Engage Connection, Durban Tourism, King Shaka International Airport, and the Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone (SEZ) situated adjacent to the airport. Six tours leaving between February 27 and March 8, and returning between March 6 and 15, are currently being advertised.
Stakeholders say the project is intended as a phased, collaborative effort aimed at boosting regional travel and the KwaZulu-Natal economy.
