Q&A with Dave Andrew, FlySafair CEO

27 Oct 2014

FlySafair, the newest domestic air service in South Africa, launched on 16 October 2014. I recently caught up with FlySafair CEO, Dave Andrew, to find out what to expect from the new low-cost airline.

Dave Andrew

FlySafair has been reported as a new player in the aviation industry. Tell us what makes FlySafair stand out from other low-cost airlines currently flying around South Africa?

Dave Andrew: Although FlySafair, as a new service offering from Safair, is a new entrant in the market, Safair itself has been actively involved in the aviation industry for near on 50 years. The fact that FlySafair is not our only business will in our opinion provide us with the stability and support that will allow us to make FlySafair a success.

Could you provide more info on the routes, their frequency and costs involved?

Andrew: We launched the Cape Town-Johannesburg route on the 16 October with four return flights a day. We plan to launch Cape Town-Port Elizabeth on the 30 October with two return flights per day, and Cape Town-George on 13 November with one return flight per day.

Are there any hidden costs involved?

Andrew: There are no hidden costs - all pricing options are clearly displayed on our website. We have however "unbundled" our fares, thus allowing our customers to choose the services that they actually require, i.e if you need to check in a bag then you can select it at an additional charge, if you do not need a bag then you don't pay for one.

What has been some of the challenges you have encountered?

Andrew: Prior to our launch flights we had seen some hesitancy from people that were waiting for us to start operating. This has however subsequently reduced as evidenced by our increased ticket sales.

A major challenge will be winning consumer confidence, as many low-cost airlines have failed. What strategy do you have in place to gain consumer confidence?

Andrew:I think the fact that we have managed to overcome the last years delay and actually started flying will go a long way in confirming that we are here to stay and should help to win us some confidence. Hereafter it will be about providing a reliable cost effective travel solution.