Qantas has upped capacity into Africa with the launch of Airbus A380 flights to Johannesburg and to help meet demand for onwards travel, the carrier has signed a new codeshare partnership with South Africa-based carrier Airlink.

The flying Kangaroo will add the QF code on Airlink’s domestic network, enabling seamless connectivity between Qantas flights to Johannesburg and nine South African destinations, including Cape Town, Durban and Hoedspruit.

“This extra A380 capacity, combined with our new codeshare with Airlink, will significantly expand the options for Qantas customers heading to Africa, strengthening the connections between family and friends, business and trade as well as supporting the tourism industry on both sides of the Indian Ocean,” said Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace.

Wallace said Qantas hopes to add additional Airlink destinations in nearby southern African countries over the coming months, pending regulatory approval.

By codesharing with Airlink, Qantas Frequent Flyers can earn Qantas Points and Status Credits, as well as pay for flights using Points Plus Pay.