Home » AIRLINE NEWS » How Discover Airlines New Upgrades Will Transform Travel for Tourists Heading to Africa
Published on
February 2, 2026
Discover Airlines has revealed plans to launch a comprehensive refurbishment of its entire long-haul fleet, consisting of 16 Airbus A330-300 aircraft, beginning in April 2027. This ambitious project, set to be completed by mid-2028, will introduce the new “Ocean Blue” cabin design, offering travelers an elevated experience while flying on one of the airline’s most crucial routes. As part of this initiative, Discover Airlines aims to improve the comfort and convenience of passengers on its long-haul flights, with a focus on accommodating the growing demand for premium leisure travel.
The airline’s investment in fleet modernization is not just about upgrading its aircraft; it is a clear response to the increasing expectations of today’s travelers. With a combination of modern design, advanced technology, and passenger-focused amenities, the new cabin will make long-haul journeys more enjoyable, particularly for those traveling between Africa, Europe, and other key international destinations.
Ocean Blue: A New Standard in Cabin Comfort and Design
The new Ocean Blue cabin design draws inspiration from Discover Airlines’ origins, with a design that reflects the airline’s ethos of providing both comfort and innovation. Each Airbus A330 will be outfitted with 288 seats, distributed across three classes: 227 seats in Economy Class, 31 in Premium Economy, and 30 in Business Class. This layout balances capacity and comfort, aiming to meet the diverse needs of travelers.
For the airline’s premium passengers, the most notable change will be in Business Class, where exclusive suites will be introduced in the front row. These suites, with sliding doors nearly 1.2 meters high, will offer unprecedented privacy for long-haul leisure and business travellers. Inside, passengers will enjoy large 32-inch monitors, ample legroom, and a selection of premium services, including upgraded dining options and enhanced storage. The private suites can be used as secluded spaces or connected for those traveling together, offering flexibility that suits both solo and group travellers.
The wider Business Class area will adopt a 1-2-1 seating configuration, ensuring all passengers have direct aisle access. Half of the seats will feature adjustable privacy dividers, allowing passengers to personalize their space. For comfort, the seats can be converted into fully flat beds nearly two meters in length, perfect for passengers seeking rest on long-haul flights.
Premium Economy and Economy Class: Elevated Comfort for All Passengers
Premium Economy will also see significant improvements with the introduction of innovative hard-shell seats designed to provide better recline angles and added privacy. Each seat will feature built-in leg rests, large recline angles, and integrated reading lights for enhanced comfort. For the first time, passengers in Premium Economy will also receive noise-canceling headphones, ensuring a quieter, more relaxing flight experience.noise-cancelling
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Economy Class will benefit from increased legroom, improved seat angles, and 6-way adjustable headrests. Passengers will also have access to more storage space, and those seeking extra room can still book seats with additional legroom. Each seat will be equipped with USB-C ports, providing convenient charging options throughout the flight.
Technology Upgrades: Connectivity and In-Flight Entertainment
In addition to physical upgrades, Discover Airlines is raising the bar with its in-flight technology. All cabins will feature 4K touchscreens with Bluetooth connectivity, enabling passengers to pair their personal devices like headphones to the entertainment system. Business and Premium Economy passengers will also benefit from wireless charging capabilities alongside USB-C and power outlets, ensuring their devices remain fully charged during the flight.
As connectivity becomes an increasingly important factor for modern travelers, the entire Airbus A330 fleet will be upgraded to offer the fastest in-flight Internet access via Starlink. This service will be provided free of charge to passengers, making Discover Airlines one of the first carriers to offer high-speed Internet on all its long-haul flights. This is especially valuable for tourists and business travelers who want to stay connected while traveling between Africa and key international destinations.
Impact on African Tourism and Global Connectivity
For Africa’s tourism sector, the cabin upgrade marks a significant development, positioning Discover Airlines as a key player in connecting Africa with the rest of the world. As more international travelers seek comfort, reliability, and modern amenities on long-haul flights, Discover Airlines is well-placed to meet these demands with its revamped fleet.
The increased comfort and connectivity will also benefit passengers traveling from Africa to Europe and beyond, making it easier for tourists to explore new destinations. With the introduction of more modern aircraft, the airline is improving the travel experience, making it an attractive option for visitors heading to and from Africa.
The fleet upgrade comes at a time when African tourism is experiencing significant growth, with increasing numbers of travelers choosing the continent for its diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and adventure tourism. Discover Airlines’ modernized fleet and enhanced services align perfectly with the evolving needs of international tourists, ensuring the airline remains a competitive option in the global market.
Looking to the Future: Discover Airlines’ Growing Role in Global Tourism
The Ocean Blue cabin upgrade is just the beginning for Discover Airlines, as the airline continues to expand its network and enhance its offerings. The aircraft refurbishment represents a forward-thinking approach to customer service, aiming to set new benchmarks for long-haul flights. As Discover Airlines strengthens its position in the international market, its focus on customer experience, technology, and sustainability will play a crucial role in shaping the future of tourism travel, particularly between Africa and the rest of the world.
