Johannesburg – Low-cost carrier FlySafair has announced that they will begin operating flights from northern Johannesburg’s Lanseria International Airport from August 1, 2016.
The move comes in response to requests from customers who have been eager to see the low-cost carrier bring their great fares to Lanseria, which is often a more convenient option to those seeking access to northern Johannesburg and Pretoria.
FlySafair will offer flights from Lanseria International Airport to Cape Town and George.
Cape Town flights will commence August 1 and depart and return twice daily and George flights will depart and return on Fridays and Sundays starting August 5.
From October 30 the Cape Town schedule will increase to 3 flights daily.
“Business demand for Cape Town flights is obvious,” says Kirby Gordon, Vice President of Sales & Distribution at FlySafair, “and we’ll be the only carrier offering George flights from Lanseria, which will be very exciting.”
New aircraft
FlySafair’s new Lanseria flights will not come at the expense of any other flights on their schedule.
The carrier confirmed that they are acquiring additional aircraft to cover this flying schedule bringing their fleet to a total of nine Boeing 737s.
Lanseria fares likely to drop
To date Lanseria International Airport has been something of a safe haven for the industry where consumers have generally been charged a premium for the convenience of flying in and out of this airport. Gordon explains that there’s no significant cost difference between operating from Lanseria versus OR Tambo.
“Higher fares from Lanseria are largely a product of supply and demand, so we’re likely to see a drop in fares due to the fact that we’ll be making more seats available on these routes.”
Rampa Rammopo, CEO of Lanseria said that the carrier’s decision to begin operations from Lanseria. “We’re very excited to welcome FlySafair to Lanseria.”
Lanseria International Airport is a privately owned international airport, and has established itself as a key player in the aviation sector.
Airport facilities include an upgraded passenger terminal building, restaurants, duty free shopping, lounge facilities, parking and pick up and drop off area.
Adapted from a press release for IOL