Get ready to fly with ease this summer! Our well-known low-cost carrier FlySafair is gearing up for the bustling summer travel season by expanding its fleet with two additional Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft. This strategic move will add between 12 and 14 flights per day to their schedule, ensuring more South Africans can take to the skies without burning a hole in their wallets.
“There’s no better time to prepare for the silly season than now,” says Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer of FlySafair. “And our passengers feel the same way, with bookings over December already rising.”
The addition of these aircraft is a direct response to the rising demand for flights during the summer months. “We perceive current market pricing to be irrationally high, meaning the peak periods need more capacity,” Gordon explains. While specific routes for the new Boeings haven’t been confirmed, they’re expected to bolster the well-travelled Golden Triangle: Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban.
South Africa’s aviation market is fiercely competitive, with five airlines vying for domestic dominance. FlySafair’s edge lies in its efficient operating model, which keeps costs low and makes air travel accessible to more people. “Our goal is to offer a basic flight solution that allows more South Africans to connect with loved ones and explore the country without breaking the bank,” says Gordon.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, South African air travel is bouncing back. IATA’s April 2024 report shows that 2023 passenger levels reached 90% of 2019 figures, and SA Tourism’s Domestic Tourism Report highlighted a rise in domestic trips to 37.9 million, up from 34 million in 2022.
“Air travel will always be somewhat of a luxury for many South Africans, but with the rise of the low-cost model, it’s becoming more accessible,” says Gordon. “December is when we see huge numbers of people traveling to see families or just to take a break from working all year. FlySafair’s mission is to provide our customers with low-fare, hassle-free, and on-time air travel – something we will continue to do throughout the busy summer season.”
The first of the new aircraft will arrive at the end of July and is expected to join the airline’s schedule in September. The second will touch down in October and enter service in November. Each aircraft will add 189 seats per flight, bringing FlySafair’s total fleet to 36 aircraft. With these additions, FlySafair is set to make this summer travel season smoother and more affordable for everyone.
Main Image: MSN
