Find and Book Cheap Air Botswana (BP) Flight Tickets

About Air Botswana

Air Botswana (IATA: BP, ICAO: BOT) is the national flag carrier of Botswana, headquartered in Gaborone. Founded on 2 July 1972, the airline was established to succeed two earlier national carriers, Botswana National Airways (1966–1969) and Botswana Airways Corporation (1970–1971). On 1 April 1988, Air Botswana was formally absorbed by the Botswana government as a parastatal corporation under the Air Botswana Act, solidifying its role as the country's official airline.

Operating from its main hub at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone, Air Botswana serves scheduled domestic and regional routes across southern Africa. The airline connects key cities in Botswana with international destinations in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and beyond through codeshare partnerships with Qatar Airways and Kenya Airways. Whether you are travelling for business or heading to Botswana's world-famous wildlife reserves, Air Botswana provides a reliable gateway to one of Africa's most sought-after destinations.

Airline Overview and History

Air Botswana has a rich history spanning over five decades. Here are the key milestones in the airline's journey:

• 1972: Air Botswana was founded on 2 July 1972, taking over from the defunct Botswana Airways Corporation.
• 1988: The airline was nationalised under the Air Botswana Act and became a government-owned parastatal corporation under the Ministry of Works, Transport and Communications.
• 2000s: Air Botswana expanded its regional network, adding routes to Johannesburg, Harare, and Cape Town to connect Botswana with the broader southern African region.
• 2012: The airline took delivery of its first ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft, modernising its fleet for domestic and short-haul regional operations.
• 2024: Air Botswana announced plans to expand its fleet with three additional Embraer aircraft to strengthen its regional capacity.

The airline's mission has always been to provide safe, reliable, and efficient air transport services that connect Botswana to the world. As a state-owned carrier, Air Botswana plays a vital role in supporting tourism and economic development in the country.

Fleet and Aircraft

Air Botswana operates a compact fleet tailored to the specific demands of its domestic and regional route network. The current operational fleet includes:

• ATR 72-600: Two of these modern turboprop aircraft form the backbone of Air Botswana's domestic operations. The ATR 72-600 seats approximately 70 passengers and is well-suited for short-haul routes between Gaborone, Maun, Kasane, and Francistown. It is known for fuel efficiency and the ability to operate from shorter runways.
• Embraer E170: This regional jet is used on longer routes, particularly international services to Johannesburg and Cape Town. The E170 seats around 76 passengers and offers a comfortable cabin experience with wider seats than typical turboprops.

Air Botswana maintains strict safety and maintenance standards in line with Botswana Civil Aviation Authority regulations. The airline continuously evaluates fleet modernisation opportunities to improve passenger comfort and operational efficiency across its growing network.

Top Flight Routes

Air Botswana connects Botswana's major cities with key regional destinations. Here are the airline's most popular routes:

• Gaborone to Maun: This route is the primary gateway to the Okavango Delta, one of Africa's most iconic wildlife destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Flights operate daily and take approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
• Gaborone to Kasane: Kasane serves as the gateway to Chobe National Park, renowned for its massive elephant herds. This route is popular among safari travellers visiting northern Botswana.
• Gaborone to Francistown: Connecting Botswana's capital with its second-largest city, this domestic route serves both business and leisure travellers.
• Gaborone to Johannesburg: The busiest international route, linking Botswana with South Africa's largest city and the O.R. Tambo International Airport hub. Multiple daily flights are available.
• Gaborone to Cape Town: Air Botswana is the only carrier operating direct flights between Gaborone and Cape Town, making it a convenient choice for travellers heading to the Western Cape.
• Maun to Johannesburg: Connecting the Okavango Delta gateway directly with Johannesburg, this route is essential for international tourists visiting Botswana's safari regions.
• Gaborone to Harare: This regional route connects Botswana with Zimbabwe's capital, supporting trade, tourism, and cross-border travel.

If you are flying from Malaysia to Botswana, you can connect through Johannesburg and then take an Air Botswana flight onward to Gaborone, Maun, or Kasane. You can also explore connecting options via Kuala Lumpur to Singapore, Kuala Lumpur to Doha, or Kuala Lumpur to Dubai for convenient connections to southern Africa.

Baggage Allowance and Policies

Air Botswana provides the following baggage allowances for passengers on its flights:

Checked Baggage

• Standard fare: 23 kg per passenger for Economy Class.
• Premier and Flexible fares: 30 kg checked baggage allowance.
• Infants (not occupying a seat): 5 kg free luggage allowance.

Cabin Baggage

• Weight: Maximum 7 kg per passenger.
• Size: Must fit into the overhead lockers of the aircraft.
• Quantity: One piece of hand luggage is permitted.

Excess Baggage

If your luggage exceeds the free baggage allowance, excess baggage fees apply and are calculated on a per-kilogram basis. Rates vary depending on the route (domestic or international). It is recommended to purchase additional baggage allowance in advance through Air Botswana's booking channels or contact their office directly for the latest rates, as paying at the airport counter may incur higher charges.

Prohibited Items

As with all airlines, Air Botswana prohibits flammable liquids, explosives, compressed gases, sharp objects, and other dangerous goods in both checked and cabin baggage. Lithium batteries, power banks exceeding 100Wh, and e-cigarettes must be carried in hand luggage only.

Check-in Guide

Air Botswana offers multiple check-in options to make your pre-flight experience seamless:

Airport Counter Check-in

• Domestic flights: Check-in counters open at least 2 hours and close 1 hour before the scheduled departure time.
• International flights: Check-in counters open at least 3 hours and close 2 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Online Check-in

• Availability: Online check-in is available for all Air Botswana domestic and regional destinations.
• Timing: Opens 24 hours before departure.
• Closing: Closes 1 hour before departure for domestic flights and 2 hours before departure for international flights.
• How to access: Through the official Air Botswana website or the Air Botswana mobile app.
• Features: Download your electronic boarding pass or print it at home. You can also select or change your seat during online check-in.

If you have checked baggage, you can use the Air Botswana Express or Teemane Check-in counter for a quick bag drop after completing online check-in.

Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience

Air Botswana primarily operates an Economy Class cabin across its fleet, offering a comfortable and efficient travel experience on its domestic and regional routes.

Economy Class

Economy Class on Air Botswana provides comfortable seating with adequate legroom for the short to medium-haul flights the airline operates. The ATR 72-600 aircraft features a 2-2 seating configuration, while the Embraer E170 offers a 2-2 layout as well, providing every passenger with easy aisle or window access.

In-Flight Meals and Beverages

• Meals: Complimentary meals are served on selected flights where the flight duration allows. On shorter domestic routes, snacks and beverages are provided instead.
• Special dietary requirements: If you require a special meal for health or religious reasons, you should inform Air Botswana at least 48 hours before your departure.

In-Flight Service

Air Botswana's cabin crew are known for providing warm, professional service that reflects the spirit of Botswana's hospitality. While the airline does not offer personal in-flight entertainment screens given the short duration of most flights, the friendly service and scenic views of southern Africa's landscapes make every journey enjoyable.

Passenger Policies and Special Services

Air Botswana accommodates a wide range of passenger needs with the following policies:

Children and Infants

• Infants (under 2 years): Infants may travel on a parent's lap without a separate seat. A valid birth certificate is required.
• Children (2–11 years): Children must have their own seat and a valid ticket. For international flights, a valid passport is required.
• Unaccompanied minors: Children under 18 travelling alone or with one parent on international flights must have affidavits and certified copies of the parent's identification documents.

Expectant Mothers

• Travel permitted: Up to the 32nd week of pregnancy.
• Medical certificate: A medical certificate of fitness to travel is required at the time of booking and must be presented at check-in.
• Travel after 32 weeks: Air travel is not permitted after the 32nd week of pregnancy.

Special Assistance

Passengers requiring wheelchair assistance, mobility support, or other special services should notify Air Botswana at least 48 hours before departure. The airline provides assistance at the airport and during boarding and disembarkation. Passengers travelling with medical equipment should also inform the airline in advance to ensure proper arrangements are made.

Frequent Flyer Programme

Air Botswana's loyalty programme is called the Teemane Club. The word "Teemane" means "diamond" in Setswana, reflecting Botswana's rich diamond heritage. The programme rewards frequent travellers with points on every Air Botswana flight.

Tier Levels

• Blue: Entry-level tier covering 0–8,000 miles. Blue Card holders receive discounts with selected partner merchants.
• Silver: Requires flying at least 8,000 miles in a year. Benefits include priority check-in and a bonus baggage allowance of 5 kg.
• Gold: Requires at least 15,000 miles flown in a year. Benefits include airport lounge access, priority boarding, and a higher excess baggage allowance.
• Diamond: The top tier offering the most exclusive benefits, including priority waitlisting, guaranteed seats, business class upgrades, priority check-in and boarding, and enhanced excess baggage allowances.

Earning and Redeeming Points

Members earn miles on every Air Botswana ticketed and operated flight. Accumulated miles can be redeemed for flight tickets, seat upgrades, and companion awards. New members must complete at least 3 flights with Air Botswana before being issued a permanent Blue Card.

Why Book Air Botswana Flights on Traveloka

Booking your Air Botswana flights through Traveloka gives you access to a range of benefits that make travel planning easier and more affordable:

• Best price guarantee: Traveloka compares fares across multiple sources to ensure you get the most competitive prices for Air Botswana flights.
• Flexible payment options: Pay using your preferred method, including credit and debit cards, online banking, and popular Malaysian e-wallets such as Touch 'n Go, Boost, GrabPay, and ShopeePay.
• Instant e-ticket: Receive your confirmed booking and e-ticket instantly via email and the Traveloka app after payment.
• 24/7 customer support: Traveloka's customer service team is available around the clock to assist with booking changes, cancellations, and travel inquiries.
• Traveloka Rewards: Earn Traveloka Points with every booking, which can be redeemed for discounts on future flights, hotels, and other travel products.
• Bundle and save: Combine your Air Botswana flight with hotel bookings, airport transfers, and travel insurance on Traveloka for additional savings.

Air Botswana Promotions and Deals on Traveloka

Traveloka regularly features exclusive promotions and deals for Air Botswana flights. Here are some tips to make the most of available offers:

• Seasonal sales: Look out for special fare promotions during major travel seasons, public holidays, and festive periods. Traveloka often partners with airlines to offer limited-time discounts.
• Promo codes: Check Traveloka's promotions page for active promo codes that can be applied to Air Botswana bookings for instant discounts.
• Price Alerts: Enable Price Alerts on the Traveloka app to receive notifications when fares for your preferred Air Botswana routes drop.
• Early bird deals: Booking your flights well in advance — ideally 4 to 8 weeks before your travel date — often secures the best fares.
• Midweek travel: Flying on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Saturdays typically offers lower fares compared to peak travel days like Fridays and Sundays.
• Off-peak travel: Consider travelling outside of Botswana's peak safari season (June to October) for more affordable fares on popular routes to Maun and Kasane.

How to Book Air Botswana Tickets on Traveloka

Booking Air Botswana flights on Traveloka is quick and straightforward. Follow these simple steps:

1. Visit Traveloka: Open the Traveloka app or go to www.traveloka.com/en-my on your browser.
2. Select Flights: Tap on the Flights icon and enter your departure city, destination, travel dates, number of passengers, and preferred cabin class.
3. Search and compare: Browse the search results to compare Air Botswana fares alongside other airlines. Use the filter options to sort by price, departure time, or number of stops.
4. Choose your flight: Select your preferred Air Botswana flight and review the fare details, including baggage allowance and any fare conditions.
5. Enter passenger details: Fill in the required passenger information, including full name (as per passport), date of birth, and contact details.
6. Add extras: Optionally add travel insurance, seat selection, or other ancillary services available for your booking.
7. Make payment: Choose your preferred payment method — credit or debit card, online banking, or e-wallets like Touch 'n Go, Boost, GrabPay, or ShopeePay — and complete the transaction.
8. Receive confirmation: Your e-ticket and booking confirmation will be sent to your email and will also appear in the Traveloka app under My Bookings.

You can also check your flight status directly on Traveloka to stay updated on any schedule changes before your departure.