About the Company

In 2024, FlySafair proudly celebrated 10 years of flying. From our very first flight and iconic stadium flyovers supporting the Springboks, to every safe landing since, each milestone has been achieved thanks to the continued trust and support of our passengers. Over the past decade, that trust has allowed us to grow, innovate, and become the airline we are today.

For the Love of Flying

FlySafair (pronounced “fly-saf-air”) officially began operations in October 2014. Behind the airline stands Safair, a company with more than 50 years of aviation experience. Together, they share a deep passion for flying and a commitment to excellence in the skies.

How It Started

Safair was established in 1965 and has grown into one of Africa’s leading specialist aviation companies. The business is well known for operating the Lockheed Hercules C130, a powerful aircraft capable of transporting oversized cargo such as small fire engines and landing on short, rugged dirt runways across remote regions of Africa.

Alongside specialist airlift services, Safair also built a strong leasing and cargo operation. Over the years, the company has operated Boeing aircraft on contract for various airlines. Many frequent flyers in South Africa since the 1980s have likely flown on a Safair-operated aircraft, including those used for the maiden flight of Kulula and services for Air Namibia, South African Airways, and Ryanair.

How It’s Going

While Safair had long been involved in passenger aviation, FlySafair marked the first time the company operated under its own brand. Prior to this, Safair flew on a leasing basis for several local and international airlines, including SAA, Mango, Kulula, and Ryanair.

On 16 October 2014, FlySafair launched with its distinctive pink and blue tail, ushering in a new era. The introduction of low fares disrupted the local market, reducing average ticket prices by up to 32% on certain routes. This made air travel accessible to many South Africans who had never flown before. With decades of experience landing on challenging runways across Africa, FlySafair’s skilled crews bring that same confidence and expertise to every flight across South Africa’s major airports.