FlySafair: The Low-Cost Carrier That Dominates South African Skies, Fleet and Routes

A low-cost model born from a cargo airline

What is special about FlySafair is its legacy: Safair has been flying charter and cargo in South Africa for decades, technical experience that it carried over to the launch of the low-cost passenger brand in 2014. The result is an airline that presents itself as low cost in its fares but with an operating culture closer to that of a traditional carrier, an element often cited to explain its reputation for punctuality above the South African market average.

The fleet

FlySafair flies an all-Boeing fleet, made up largely of 737-800s, mostly leased, alongside a smaller number of owned 737-400s. The airline has signed leasing agreements with AerCap for additional 737-800s and for its first 737 MAX 8s, with deliveries expected from 2026 for the NG aircraft and from 2028 for the MAXs, a renewal that aims to gradually modernize a fleet that is already among the largest on the continent.

Routes and network

Most of the operation remains concentrated on domestic routes between Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth, the busiest in the South African domestic market. In recent years the airline has added to this base a few regional leisure destinations in neighboring countries, slowly widening its reach beyond national borders without distorting the short-haul point-to-point model.

Fares and baggage

The fare structure follows the classic low-cost scheme: the base fare includes only a small carry-on bag, while the larger trolley and checked baggage must be bought separately along with seat selection. The higher fares progressively add baggage allowance and more flexibility on changes, with a price gap that widens in peak periods such as the South African school holidays.

What passengers say

• Most praised: punctuality perceived as above the domestic industry average, quick boarding procedures, a booking app judged easy to use.
• Most criticized: extra costs that add up quickly for those adding baggage and an assigned seat, reduced legroom typical of the 737's high-density configuration.

FlySafair is the most sensible choice if you are moving between the main South African cities and aiming for the lowest possible price, especially when booking weeks in advance. It is less suitable if you need a wide international network, since most of the offering remains concentrated on the domestic market.

If your travel plan requires checked baggage, add it right when you buy the ticket: the cost rises noticeably if you add it later or directly at the airport.