FlySafair

FlySafair has revolutionized air travel within Southern Africa since taking to the skies in October 2014. Born from the rich legacy of Safair, a prominent aviation logistics company established in 1965, this airline combines decades of operational expertise with a modern, customer-focused approach. As a low-cost carrier, it has quickly become a favorite for travelers seeking affordable fares without compromising on reliability, professionalism, or safety. Whether you are commuting for business or heading to the coast for a holiday, FlySafair offers a seamless and efficient flying experience.

The airline distinguishes itself through several key features and advantages that cater to the needs of modern passengers:

Unmatched Punctuality: FlySafair is widely recognized for its operational excellence. It has consistently been named one of the most on-time airlines in the world, making it a reliable choice for travelers with tight schedules.

Extensive Network: While primarily serving major domestic routes connecting cities like Cape Town, Durban, and Gqeberha, the airline has expanded its reach regionally. It now offers flights to exciting leisure destinations such as Port Louis, Zanzibar City, and Harare.

Safety First: Safety is a core pillar of the company's philosophy. FlySafair maintains the prestigious IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) certification, ensuring that its operations meet the highest international safety standards.

Flexible Fare Options: To keep travel accessible, the airline utilizes an unbundled fare model. This allows passengers to pay only for what they need, with options ranging from a basic "Lite" fare to more comprehensive packages that include luggage and priority boarding.

Contact Information

Travelers based in the United Arab Emirates can contact FlySafair through their international customer support channels. As the airline primarily operates within Southern Africa and is headquartered in Johannesburg, there are currently no dedicated local phone lines or physical offices available in the UAE. All inquiries are handled by the central support team in South Africa.

Official Website

For the most direct access to bookings, flight management, and support, visit the official website:
www.flysafair.co.za

Contact Details

• Official Website: https://www.flysafair.co.za
• Customer Service: +27 87 357 0030 (International calling rates apply)
• WhatsApp Support: +27 87 357 0030 (Available for chat queries)
• Email: help@flysafair.co.za
• Mobile App: FlySafair App (Available on Apple App Store, Google Play, and Huawei AppGallery)

Social Media

You can also reach out to the airline or check for updates via their verified social media profiles:

• Facebook: FlySafair
• X (Twitter): @FlySafair
• Instagram: @flysafair

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

• Office Address: There are currently no local walk-in offices or airport desks for FlySafair in the United Arab Emirates.
• Support Note: Please direct all correspondence to the digital channels or the international call center listed above.

Support Hours

The FlySafair call center generally operates from 07:00 to 19:00 (South African Standard Time). Travelers calling from the UAE should note that this corresponds to approximately 09:00 to 21:00 in local UAE time.

Baggage Policy

FlySafair operates as a low-cost carrier with a tiered fare structure designed to give passengers flexibility and affordability. This means your baggage allowance directly depends on the specific ticket class you have purchased—Lite, Standard, or Business. Understanding these allowances before you head to the airport is crucial to avoiding unexpected fees at the check-in counter.

Carry-on Baggage Allowances

Strict adherence to cabin baggage limits is a hallmark of FlySafair’s operations to ensure punctual departures. All passengers are permitted to bring one small personal item on board, such as a handbag, small backpack, or laptop bag. This item must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.

For the larger carry-on bag (typically stored in the overhead locker), the policy is generous across all fare types:

• Lite, Standard, and Business Fares: All tickets include an allowance for one piece of carry-on luggage.

The maximum weight for this carry-on luggage is 7 kg, and the dimensions must not exceed 56 x 36 x 23 cm. Please note that if the overhead lockers are full, your bag may be placed in the hold at the boarding gate free of charge. However, bags exceeding the weight or size limits will be moved to the hold, and penalty fees will apply.

Checked Baggage Limits

For passengers wishing to travel with larger items, checked luggage policies vary by fare class. The standard weight limit for a single piece of checked luggage is 20 kg.

• Lite Fares: Designed for the budget-conscious traveler, these fares do not include a checked bag. If you need to check luggage, you must purchase an allowance separately.
• Standard and Business Fares: Typically include one piece of 20 kg checked luggage in the ticket price.

Regardless of the fees paid, no single piece of luggage may exceed 32 kg due to international health and safety regulations for baggage handlers. If your bag exceeds 20 kg but stays under the 32 kg limit, a heavy bag fee will be charged. It is highly recommended to purchase extra bags or weight online, as airport rates are significantly higher.

Special Items: Sports and Musical Equipment

FlySafair accommodates sports enthusiasts and musicians by allowing special equipment to be transported as checked luggage. Items such as golf bags, bicycles, surfboards, and large musical instruments are classified as "Special Luggage" and incur a separate handling fee. These items must be securely packed to prevent damage. Bicycles, for instance, require the handlebars to be turned parallel to the frame and the pedals removed or folded.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure the safety of all passengers and crew, certain items are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage:

• Power Banks and Spare Lithium Batteries: These must only be packed in your carry-on luggage (cabin bag) and are strictly forbidden in checked luggage due to fire risks.
• Flammable Liquids and Gases: Items such as lighter fluid, camping gas, and non-toiletrie aerosols are prohibited.
• Sharp Objects: Knives, scissors, and tools must be packed in checked luggage and are not allowed in the cabin.
• Smart Bags: Luggage with integrated lithium batteries is only accepted if the battery can be removed. If the battery cannot be removed, the bag will not be carried.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To ensure a smooth journey on popular routes such as those between Johannesburg and Cape Town, consider these packing tips:

• Weigh at Home: Use a luggage scale before leaving for the airport to ensure your bags are within the 20 kg (checked) or 7 kg (carry-on) limits.
• Label Your Bags: Attach a sturdy tag with your name, phone number, and email address to all checked items.
• Secure Straps: Ensure all loose straps on backpacks or sports bags are tied down to prevent them from getting caught in the airport conveyor belts.
• Pre-book Allowance: If you are traveling on a Lite fare or suspect you might go over the limit, purchase extra weight or bag slots online before your flight to save money.

Pet Travel Rules

FlySafair understands that pets are an important part of the family, but the airline maintains strict safety protocols regarding animal transportation. Unlike many international carriers, FlySafair generally does not permit pets to travel in the cabin or as standard checked luggage handled at the passenger terminals. Instead, they have established a specialized partnership with BidAir Cargo PetLounge to ensure your furry friends travel safely in a dedicated, climate-controlled environment.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

For the safety and comfort of all passengers, FlySafair has a strict policy prohibiting pets in the aircraft cabin. The only exception to this rule is for registered service animals.

• Carrier dimensions: Not applicable (Pets are not permitted in the cabin).
• Maximum pet weight: Not applicable.
• Allowed pet types: Service Dogs only (Guide Dogs, Assistant Dogs).
• Breed restrictions: None for service dogs, provided they are trained and harnessed.
• Limit per passenger: One service dog per dependent passenger (subject to approval).

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

FlySafair does not accept pets as "checked baggage" or "excess luggage" at the normal passenger check-in counters. You cannot simply hand over a pet carrier along with your suitcases.

• Container requirements: Not applicable (Service not offered at passenger terminals).
• Weight and size limits: Not applicable.
• Note: All animals destined for the hold must be processed as Manifest Cargo through the specific facility described below.

As Cargo (via BidAir Cargo PetLounge)

This is the primary and standard method for transporting pets on FlySafair domestic routes. Your pet travels in the same aircraft but is handled by professional animal handlers at a separate cargo facility.

• When this option is required: For all household pets (cats and dogs) traveling on domestic flights.
• Special requirements: Pets must be dropped off at the BidAir Cargo PetLounge at least 2.5 hours before the flight.
• Container requirements: You must provide an IATA-approved hard plastic crate. The crate must be large enough for the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• Booking procedure: Bookings are made directly through the BidAir Cargo PetLounge website or the FlySafair call center. This is separate from your passenger ticket.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth acceptance process at the PetLounge, you must present the following documents on the day of travel:

• Veterinary Health Booklet: Original documents showing the pet's health history.
• Vaccination Certificates: Proof of up-to-date vaccinations, specifically Rabies (administered at least 30 days but no more than 12 months prior to travel).
• Shipper's Declaration: A completed form usually provided during the booking process.
• Owner's Identification: ID or passport of the person checking in the pet.
• Service Dog Paperwork: For cabin travel, proof of registration with a recognized organization (e.g., Guide Dog Association of South Africa) is mandatory 48 hours in advance.

Service Costs

The cost of transporting a pet is not included in your passenger fare and is calculated based on the size of the crate and the weight of the animal.

• In-cabin fee: Free for registered Service Dogs (pre-approval required).
• Cargo hold fee (PetLounge): Prices vary by route and crate size. Approximate costs start from ZAR 500 - ZAR 800 for small crates on short routes but can be higher for large dogs.
• Note: Prices are subject to change and are paid directly to the cargo handler or during the separate booking process.

Preparation Tips

• Secure a Crate: Ensure you have a compliant IATA crate with a secure metal door mechanism. Wire or soft-sided carriers are not accepted for cargo.
• Familiarization: Let your pet spend time in the crate days before the flight to reduce anxiety.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before the flight. Do not feed them right before departure to prevent motion sickness.
• Hydration: A water bowl must be attached to the inside of the crate door so it can be filled from the outside if necessary.
• Stress Reduction: Do not sedate your pet. Airlines and veterinarians advise against sedation as it can be dangerous at high altitudes.

Restrictions

• Prohibited Animals: Currently, the PetLounge service on FlySafair flights generally accepts only cats and dogs.
• International Flights: Pet travel is typically not available on international or regional routes (e.g., to Mauritius or Zanzibar); this service is primarily for domestic sectors like Johannesburg to Cape Town.
• Age Limits: Puppies and kittens must usually be at least 8 to 10 weeks old to travel.
• Health: Sick or heavily pregnant animals will be refused carriage.
• Exceptions: Service dogs are the only animals allowed in the passenger cabin.

Important: Pet travel rules are strictly enforced and can change. We strongly recommend contacting FlySafair or BidAir Cargo PetLounge directly to confirm availability and specific requirements for your travel dates.

Loyalty and Rewards

Unlike many traditional airlines, FlySafair does not operate a standard frequent flyer program where passengers earn "miles" for every trip. Instead, the airline focuses on keeping base fares consistently low for all travelers. However, frequent flyers and those with specific banking or lifestyle memberships can still access significant savings through the airline's innovative subscription model and extensive partner network.

The FlyMore Club

For travelers who visit South Africa often or need to commute regularly between major cities, FlySafair offers the FlyMore Club. This is a subscription-based service designed to function like a "flight-hailing" app for air travel. By paying a fixed monthly fee, members receive a set allocation of flights each month.

• How it works: Subscribers choose a package (e.g., 2, 6, or 10 flights per month). The monthly fee covers the base fare entirely.
• What you pay: When booking a specific flight, members only pay the airport taxes and any optional extras (like checked luggage or priority boarding).
• Flexibility: This program is particularly popular for business travelers commuting on high-frequency routes, such as the busy corridor between Johannesburg and Cape Town or Durban.

Partner Program Discounts

FlySafair has established partnerships with several of South Africa’s leading financial and lifestyle rewards programs. While these are primarily geared towards South African residents, they offer substantial value if you hold a relevant account.

Key Partnerships Include:

• Discovery Vitality: Members can save significantly on base fares, with discounts often reaching up to 75% depending on their status.
• FNB eBucks: Travelers can pay for flights using eBucks currency or access discounts of up to 40%.
• Sanlam Reality: Members typically enjoy fare reductions ranging from 10% to 50%.
• Other Partners: The airline also works with Momentum Multiply, Vodacom Red, and various banking rewards programs to offer exclusive deals.

For international tourists visiting from the United Arab Emirates, the most accessible way to save is simply by booking the standard "Lite" fares well in advance, as these unbundled tickets offer the lowest possible price point without requiring a local membership.

Service Classes and Onboard Experience

As a low-cost carrier, FlySafair focuses on efficiency and affordability, offering a streamlined single-cabin layout across its fleet. While the airline does not feature a traditional First Class cabin or lie-flat beds, it provides a tiered service model that allows passengers to customize their experience based on their budget and needs. Whether you are flying a short hop between Johannesburg and Durban or a longer regional route, the cabin is designed to be practical and comfortable.

Economy Class

The standard travel experience on FlySafair is Economy Class, which constitutes the majority of the seating on their Boeing 737 aircraft. The configuration is a standard 3-3 layout. Passengers can expect:

• Seating: Modern, slimline seats designed to maximize personal space. The standard seat pitch is approximately 28 to 30 inches, which is typical for short-haul budget carriers.
• Fare Bundles: Economy travelers can choose between "Lite" (seat only) and "Standard" (includes luggage and seat selection) fares.
• Extra Legroom: For taller passengers or those desiring more space, Emergency Exit Row seats and Front Row seats are available for a small additional fee during the booking process.

Business Class

FlySafair offers a specialized Business Class solution tailored for domestic business travelers who prioritize privacy and speed over luxury amenities. It is important to note that this is not a separate cabin with different seats. Instead, the "Business Class" experience is created within the front rows of the aircraft using a European-style model:

• Blocked Middle Seat: To ensure added comfort and privacy, the middle seat between the aisle and window is kept empty and often fitted with a tray table.
• Priority Perks: This fare includes priority boarding, priority baggage handling, and a generous luggage allowance (two checked bags).
• Food Allowance: Business Class passengers receive a specialized allowance to purchase items from the onboard menu.

In-Flight Amenities and Entertainment

To keep ticket prices competitive, FlySafair operates a "no-frills" service model. This means that many amenities found on full-service international carriers are either simplified or available for purchase.

Entertainment

The aircraft are not equipped with seatback screens, Wi-Fi, or in-flight audio systems. Passengers are strongly encouraged to bring their own entertainment, such as books, tablets, or smartphones loaded with movies and music. A monthly in-flight magazine, InFlight, is available in the seat pocket, featuring lifestyle articles, travel tips for destinations like Cape Town, and the onboard menu.

Meals and Beverages

Complimentary catering is not provided on standard economy fares. Instead, the airline operates a "buy-on-board" retail service called the Cravings Menu.

• Selection: The menu features a variety of snacks including chips, chocolates, biltong (a local dried meat delicacy), and sandwiches.
• Drinks: A selection of hot beverages, soft drinks, water, beer, wine, and spirits is available for purchase.
• Payment: The cabin crew accepts credit and debit cards. Cash is generally not accepted onboard to ensure faster service.

Special Services

FlySafair is committed to making air travel accessible to everyone and offers specific services for passengers requiring additional assistance.

Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM)

The airline provides wheelchair assistance for passengers who cannot navigate the terminal or board the aircraft unaided. Since many domestic airports in South Africa utilize stairs for boarding rather than jet bridges, FlySafair utilizes specialized passenger aid units (high-lift trucks) to safely lift wheelchair users to the aircraft door level at major airports like Gqeberha and East London.

Families and Children

• Infants: Infants under the age of two can travel on a parent's lap for a reduced fee. Changing tables are available in the lavatories.
• Unaccompanied Minors: For children between the ages of 5 and 11 traveling alone, the airline offers a supervised service where ground staff and cabin crew escort the child through every step of the journey until they are handed over to the designated guardian at the destination.

Destinations and Route Network

FlySafair serves as a vital connector within Southern Africa, offering an extensive network that links major metropolitan hubs with key tourist destinations. For travelers arriving from the United Arab Emirates, the airline provides seamless onward connections from its primary base in Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo International Airport) to the coastal regions and beyond. The network is designed to cater to both business commuters and holidaymakers seeking affordable travel options.

Domestic South Africa Connections

The airline’s strongest presence is within South Africa, operating high-frequency flights between the country's three major cities: Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. This "Golden Triangle" is the busiest corridor in the network, ensuring flexibility for tourists planning multi-city itineraries.

Beyond the main cities, FlySafair offers regular service to popular coastal and garden route destinations. Travelers can easily reach Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) and George, which are gateways to the famous Garden Route. The network also extends to East London and the judicial capital, Bloemfontein, as well as the gateway to the Kruger National Park, Mbombela.

Regional and Leisure Routes

In recent years, the airline has expanded its footprint to include exciting regional destinations perfect for leisure travelers. Direct flights connect South Africa to island paradises and cultural hubs in neighboring countries:

• Mauritius: Regular flights to Port Louis offer a tropical escape in the Indian Ocean.
• Tanzania: The route to Zanzibar City is popular for those seeking history and beaches.
• Zimbabwe: The airline serves the capital, Harare, and provides access to the majestic Victoria Falls.

Popular Routes

Below is a selection of the most frequent routes operated by FlySafair, based on current flight schedules:

To make the most of your journey with FlySafair, a few insider tips can help you secure the best fares and ensure a smooth travel experience. As a budget-friendly carrier, the airline operates on a model where ticket prices typically increase as the flight fills up. Therefore, the golden rule is to book as far in advance as possible. Planning your trip to major hubs like Johannesburg or coastal cities like Cape Town a few weeks ahead can result in significant savings compared to last-minute purchases.

Travelers should keep a close watch for special promotions and "flash sales," which the airline frequently runs. Subscribing to their newsletter or following their social media channels is an excellent way to catch these deals immediately. Be flexible with your travel dates if possible; flying mid-week often yields lower fares than weekend travel, especially on popular routes to Durban or Gqeberha.

Streamline your airport experience by utilizing the online check-in service. This feature usually opens 24 hours before departure and allows you to download your boarding pass directly to your phone. For those traveling without checked luggage, this means you can head straight to security, bypassing the check-in counters entirely. If you do have bags, look for the dedicated bag-drop lines, which generally move faster than standard queues.

When it comes to comfort, seat selection is worth considering during the booking process. While FlySafair offers great value, seats are allocated automatically unless you choose to pay a small fee to pick your own. If you require extra legroom or want to ensure you are seated next to your travel companions, pre-selecting your seat is highly recommended. The airline also offers a mobile app that is incredibly convenient for managing bookings, checking flight status in real-time, and storing digital boarding passes.

Finally, consider the value of travel insurance. While domestic flights are generally reliable, having coverage for unexpected cancellations, baggage issues, or medical emergencies offers peace of mind. Review the fare rules carefully as well; some "Lite" fares may be non-refundable or restrict baggage allowances, so choose the ticket type that best suits your travel needs.

History and Development

While FlySafair is a relatively young brand in the commercial passenger market, its roots run deep into South Africa’s aviation history. The airline is the consumer arm of Safair, a legendary aviation logistics and aircraft maintenance company established in 1965. For nearly five decades, Safair operated behind the scenes, providing specialized airlift services, leasing aircraft to international carriers, and supporting humanitarian aid missions globally. This extensive operational heritage provided the perfect foundation for launching a passenger airline that prioritized safety and technical reliability from day one.

Founding and Early Challenges

The concept of FlySafair was born around 2013, with a vision to introduce a true low-cost carrier that valued punctuality above all else. However, the road to the runway was not without obstacles. The initial launch was delayed due to legal challenges from competitors regarding the company's shareholding structure. After restructuring to fully comply with local aviation regulations and empower South African employees, FlySafair officially took to the skies on October 16, 2014. The inaugural flight connected Johannesburg to Cape Town, marking the beginning of a new era in affordable domestic travel.

Fleet Evolution

FlySafair has maintained a disciplined fleet strategy, operating exclusively Boeing 737 aircraft to ensure streamlined maintenance and crew training. In its early years, the airline utilized the rugged Boeing 737-400 "Classic" series, known for its reliability. As the airline expanded and sought greater fuel efficiency, it began an aggressive fleet modernization program. Today, the fleet is dominated by the Boeing 737-800 Next Generation aircraft. These modern planes not only reduce the airline's carbon footprint but also offer increased seating capacity and a quieter cabin experience for passengers.

Expansion and Market Leadership

The airline's growth trajectory accelerated significantly between 2019 and 2022. Following the exit of other domestic carriers from the market, FlySafair stepped in to fill the void, rapidly increasing its flight frequencies to keep South Africa connected. It solidified its presence in the "Golden Triangle" between Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, while also cementing reliable links to secondary cities like Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), George, and East London. This period of stability and growth saw the airline capture a significant majority of the domestic market share, earning it the title of "Best Low-Cost Airline in Africa" at the Skytrax World Airline Awards multiple times.

Regional and International Growth

Having conquered the domestic market, FlySafair turned its sights to regional expansion. In recent years, the airline has successfully launched operations beyond South African borders, catering to both business and leisure travelers. Significant milestones included the launch of routes to Port Louis in Mauritius and Zanzibar City in Tanzania, offering affordable access to these popular island destinations. The network grew further with connections to Harare and Victoria Falls, facilitating easier travel between South Africa and its northern neighbors.

Innovation and Modern Era

FlySafair has consistently pushed for innovation to enhance the passenger experience. It was one of the first airlines in the region to introduce a cashless cabin environment and offer boarding passes via WhatsApp. The launch of the "FlyMore Club," a subscription-based flight model, revolutionized how frequent commuters between cities like Bloemfontein and the major hubs manage their travel budgets. Today, FlySafair continues to be recognized globally for its exceptional on-time performance, regularly ranking among the most punctual airlines in the world.