FlySafair announces fare increase due to soaring jet fuel prices
Middle East crisis
South Africans looking to use low-cost airline FlySafair will have to dig a little deeper into their pockets
Image: Supplied
South African travellers planning to board FlySafair should brace themselves as the airline has announced a fare increase, effective for flights scheduled to depart on or before 12 May 2026.
This decision, attributed primarily to a dramatic rise in jet fuel prices, stems from the ongoing crisis in the Middle East that has led to an unprecedented surge in operational costs.
Details of the surcharge
The temporary fuel surcharge is set to apply to flights that are scheduled to depart on or before 12 May 2026. However, existing bookings will not be impacted by this new pricing structure.
Impact of fuel price surge
The airline has faced a leap of approximately 70% in Jet A1 fuel prices at South African coastal airports in the course of just one week. To maintain the airline’s low fare model, FlySafair has decided to pass on a portion of these increased costs to the passengers.
History with fuel surcharges
Notably, this is the first time FlySafair has introduced a fuel surcharge, a measure it has successfully resisted until now. The surcharge will commence from March 12, 2026.
Transparency in pricing
To promote fairness and transparency, the airline will itemise the surcharge explicitly on all tickets. Kirby Gordon, FlySafair’s Chief Marketing Officer, emphasized the company's commitment to providing customers with clear visibility regarding what they are paying for.
Future expectations
FlySafair intends to remove the surcharge once fuel prices stabilise, indicating their hope that improved conditions will revert fare structures to their previous levels.