FlySafair
A South African low-cost airline operating an extensive domestic network and selected regional services with an all-Boeing 737 fleet.
About FlySafair
FlySafair is the scheduled passenger brand of Safair Operations, a South African aviation company whose history dates to 1965. Safair built its reputation through specialist airlift, charter, leasing and cargo work before launching FlySafair passenger services in 2014. The airline follows a low-cost model, separating the basic fare from many optional services so travellers can select and pay for the extras they need.
O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg is FlySafair's principal hub, supported by substantial operations at Cape Town International Airport and other South African bases. Its network links Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and the country's main regional centres, including Gqeberha, East London, George and Bloemfontein. International services extend the network to selected destinations elsewhere in southern and eastern Africa and nearby Indian Ocean markets.
FlySafair operates Boeing 737 aircraft, principally the 737-800 alongside some older 737-400s. The cabins are configured mainly for efficient short-haul travel, with standard Economy seating and fare bundles that add benefits such as checked baggage, flexibility or priority services. Food, drinks and other optional items may cost extra, so travellers should compare the complete fare inclusions rather than looking only at the initial ticket price.
FlySafair does not belong to Star Alliance, SkyTeam or Oneworld, and it does not operate a conventional mileage-based frequent-flyer programme comparable with those of large network airlines. Instead, its commercial offering centres on fare choices and products such as FlyMore, a subscription-style option intended for eligible regular travellers. Passengers should not expect alliance-wide mileage earning, lounge access or through-ticket benefits when booking standard FlySafair flights.
The airline's main strength is its broad coverage of South Africa's busiest domestic corridors, often with multiple scheduling choices and competitively structured fares. The trade-off is that the lowest fare can be restrictive and may exclude checked baggage, advance seat selection and flexibility. Its older Boeing 737-400 aircraft can also feel less contemporary than newer-generation jets, although the product remains appropriate for relatively short sectors.
Good to know
Flying with FlySafair — what to expect
Check Fare Inclusions
The lowest fare may exclude checked baggage, advance seat selection and ticket flexibility. Compare the total cost after adding the services you require.
Cabin Baggage Limits
FlySafair applies weight and size limits to cabin baggage and may check bags at the airport. Confirm the current allowance for your fare before packing.
Buy Extras Early
Checked baggage, preferred seating and other optional services are generally best arranged before reaching the airport. Airport purchases may be less convenient or more expensive.
Single Airline Connections
FlySafair is not part of a global airline alliance, so connections to unrelated carriers may involve separate tickets and baggage collection. Allow a generous buffer when self-connecting.
Onboard Purchases
The low-cost model means complimentary food and drinks should not be assumed. Check the onboard menu and payment options before departure.
Busy Domestic Hubs
Johannesburg and Cape Town handle a large share of FlySafair services. Arrive with enough time for security and boarding, particularly during holiday and weekend peaks.
Route network
Popular routes operated by FlySafair
Notable destinations on FlySafair's network.
FAJohannesburgdirectFACape TowndirectFADurbandirectFAGqeberhadirectFAEast LondondirectFAGeorgedirectFABloemfonteindirectFAMbombeladirectFAHoedspruitdirectFAHararedirectFAVictoria FallsdirectFAPort LouisdirectDestination list is indicative of FlySafair's network; see the airline's official route map for its complete, current schedule.
More from South Africa
Other airlines based in South Africa
FAQ
FlySafair — frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the details travellers usually check first, from codes and locations to the practical basics that help with planning.
8 common questions
- Cape Town to Zanzibar has been among FlySafair's longest scheduled routes. Operations can change seasonally, so confirm that the service is available on your intended dates.
- FlySafair serves South Africa's principal domestic cities and leisure destinations, including Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Gqeberha, East London and George. It also operates selected regional international services to destinations such as Harare, Victoria Falls and Port Louis.
- FlySafair permits cabin baggage only within its published size and weight limits, and allowances can depend on the booked product. Check the current rules on the airline's website because oversized or overweight items may need to be checked.
- FlySafair's network covers the principal South African domestic markets plus a smaller selection of regional international destinations. The precise total can change as seasonal routes are introduced or schedules are revised.
- FlySafair's primary hub is O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. Cape Town International Airport is another major operating base.
- O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and Cape Town International Airport are FlySafair's most important departure points. Durban's King Shaka International Airport also supports numerous services.
- Originfacts compares live fares from hundreds of airlines and travel agencies via its partner Travelpayouts. Originfacts never adds a fee.
- Lower fares are often easier to find when booking early, travelling outside school holidays and choosing midweek or less popular departure times. Compare the final price carefully because the cheapest fare may not include checked baggage or flexibility.