Direct (nonstop) flights from London to Cape Town
2 airlines fly nonstop from Heathrow (LHR) to Cape Town International (CPT). It's 5,994 miles (9,646 km), about 11h 40m in the air. Operated by British Airways, Virgin Atlantic.
British Airways
Virgin Atlantic
Route data last updated: May 28, 2026
Airlines with non-stop flights
BA
British Airways
VS
Virgin Atlantic
Alternative Routes
Other ways to fly from London to Cape Town with one stop · direct emits 916 kg CO₂ per passenger
Looking for the return flight?
CPT → LHR: Flights from Cape Town to LondonOther direct flights from London
Direct flights from Cape Town (CPT)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the direct flight from London to Cape Town?
A nonstop flight from London (LHR) to Cape Town (CPT) takes approximately 11 hours and 40 minutes. The distance is 5,994 miles (9,646 km).
Which airlines fly nonstop from London to Cape Town?
2 airlines: British Airways, Virgin Atlantic.
Is there a nonstop flight from London to Cape Town?
Yes. 2 airlines: British Airways, Virgin Atlantic.
How far is London from Cape Town?
The flight distance from London to Cape Town is 5,994 miles (9,646 km), measured as the great-circle (shortest air) distance. That's roughly the same distance as London to Tokyo.
What is the time difference between London and Cape Town?
Cape Town is 1 hour ahead of London. (Europe/London vs Africa/Johannesburg.)
What type of aircraft flies from London to Cape Town?
At 11h 40m, this route typically uses wide-body aircraft — Boeing 777, 787, or Airbus A330/A350. Varies by airline.
Do I need a visa to travel from United Kingdom to South Africa?
Depends on your passport. Check with the South Africa embassy or an official visa portal before booking — requirements change.
What is the carbon footprint of a flight from London to Cape Town?
Roughly 916 kg CO2 per passenger one-way. That's about the same as driving 4,580 km.
Is the return flight from Cape Town to London also nonstop?
Yes — nonstop flights run both ways. Flight time may differ slightly due to wind patterns.
When is the cheapest time to fly from London to Cape Town?
Midweek flights (Tue/Wed) outside holiday peaks are usually cheapest. For long-haul, booking 2-3 months out tends to help. Use "Check Prices" above to compare.
How early should I arrive at Heathrow for this flight?
3 hours before departure for international flights. You need time for check-in, security, and immigration.