United Airlines signed on Tuesday (28), a code-share agreement with the South African operator Airlink to reach more than 45 destinations in southern Africa, such as Madagascar, Mozambique, and Victoria Falls.

The information-sharing business agreement adds connections to more than 40 African destinations, for travelers from the United States of America. Following the covid-19 pandemic, this alliance is the latest sign of a reopening of international travel in the region.

"Now, through our code-share agreement with Airlink - which is the broadest partnership in South Africa - customers will be able to easily explore more wish-list destinations across the continent, including easy connections to Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Zambia, Zimbabwe and more," said United's vice president of international network and alliances.

"United continues to demonstrate our commitment to Africa by starting three new routes to the continent later this year," said Patrick Quayle.

United plans to fly from Washington to Nigeria and Ghana later this year, alongside a route between New York and Johannesburg. The company also has a code-share with South African Airways (SAA) through Star Alliance.

Airlink, known as a way to get from Johannesburg to small towns across the country, is now looking to fill a gap from SAA. The national carrier recently emerged from corporate rescue and began flying to limited destinations.

Recall that in August, Airlink signed a similar agreement with Gulf giant Emirates.