[Expired] [Deal Alert] Chicago to Johannesburg From $1,422 Round-Trip in Premium Economy

Update:The offer mentioned below has expired and is no longer available.

We don’t often see deals on flights from the U.S. to South Africa, but, right now, there are some interesting fares that you should definitely consider taking advantage of before they’re gone.

Here’s a look at everything you need to know!

Fare Deal — The Details

These fares are with SWISS between Chicago (ORD) and Johannesburg, South Africa (JNB). These itineraries are actually mixed-cabin, meaning you’ll have a leg in economy and a leg in premium economy. In this case, the shorter flights between Chicago and Zurich (ZRH) are in economy and the longer flights between Zurich and Johannesburg (JNB) are in premium economy.

Play around with some dates on Google Flights and then book directly through the airline or an online travel agency (OTA). You may find cheaper rates using lesser-known OTAs, but if you think your plans may change, you may want to book with a more reputable option.

• Class: Premium economy/economy
• Routes: Chicago (ORD) to Johannesburg (JNB)
• Dates: Select dates between December 2023 and March 2024
• Rates: As low as $1,422 round-trip

How To Book

The best availability can be found in early 2024, though other dates in late 2023 may be available at a higher price.

Make sure you pay with a card that rewards you for travel purchases. Here are a few of our favorites at Upgraded Points, all of which offer sizable welcome bonuses and elevated earnings on your flights:

• The Platinum Card^® from American Express: 5x Membership Rewards points on flights booked directly with the airline or through AmexTravel.com (capped at $500,000 spent in purchases per calendar year, then 1x points)
• The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express: 5x Membership Rewards points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com
• Chase Sapphire Reserve^®: 5x Ultimate Rewards points on flights booked through Chase Travel; 3x points on all other travel purchases
• Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card: 5x Ultimate Rewards points on flights booked through Chase Travel; 2x points on all other travel purchases
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: 5x Capital One miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel; 2x miles on all other purchases (including travel)

Final Thoughts

This is an excellent deal on an often-pricey route. SWISS offers a great onboard product, and though the deal is a mixed-cabin itinerary, you’ll get nearly 11 hours in premium economy each way between Zurich and Johannesburg!