United Airlines is teaming up with Johannesburg-based Airlink, forming a codeshare arrangement that will offer one stop connections from the U.S. to some 45 destinations in Southern Africa.

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United Airlines is moving into Southern Africa via a codeshare agreement with Johannesburg-based Airlink. Photo: United AIrlines

United Airlines eyes an African codeshare expansion

United already flies between Newark and Johannesburg five times a week. The 14 and a half hour flight utilizes one of United's flagship Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. On December 1, United plans to add Cape Town to its timetable.

"United continues to demonstrate our commitment to Africa, beginning three brand new flights to the continent this year alone including new service to Accra, Ghana; Lagos, Nigeria and Johannesburg," says Patrick Quayle, vice president of international network and alliances at United.

In addition to opening up dozens of Airlink destinations in Southern Africa to United passengers, United Airlines will combine its MileagePlus loyalty program with Airlink, allowing members to earn and redeem miles when they travel on Airlink's flights.

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Airlink primarily operates a fleet of Embraer regional jets. Photo: Airlink

Also read: Emirates announces new codeshare with South Africa's Airlink

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