FedAir Adds Aircraft to Meet Safari Demand
South Africa’s premium safari shuttle and charter operator Federal Airlines (FedAir) is expanding its fleet to meet rising demand from the country’s resurgent tourism sector, particularly within the high-end safari travel market. The airline plans to add a pre-owned Embraer ERJ-145, three Cessna 208B Grand Caravan aircraft, and a spare engine as part of the expansion.
FedAir said the investment is being driven by strong growth in leisure travel to South Africa’s flagship wildlife destinations, where demand for reliable, premium point-to-point air services has accelerated. The additional capacity will support both scheduled safari shuttles and bespoke charter operations linking major gateways with remote game reserves.
The fleet expansion is being financed through a strategic partnership with Investec Aviation Finance, which has restructured and increased a senior revolving credit facility originally provided to the airline in 2023. According to the companies, the enhanced facility reflects confidence in FedAir’s business model and the continued recovery of luxury tourism.
Under the revised financing arrangement, FedAir will refinance the acquisition of the ERJ-145, one Cessna 208B, and the spare engine, while also securing delivery financing for two additional new C208B aircraft scheduled for delivery in 2026. The Grand Caravan remains a cornerstone of safari aviation in southern Africa due to its short-field performance, reliability, and ability to operate from remote bush airstrips.
FedAir currently operates a mixed fleet comprising ten Cessna 208 Caravans, including seven C208B EX Grand Caravans, four Pilatus PC-12 aircraft (including two PC-12NGs), two ERJ-145s wet-leased to Fastjet Zimbabwe, and two Beechcraft 1900D. The diversified fleet allows the airline to tailor capacity to different mission profiles, from luxury lodge transfers to regional charters.
Founded in 2004, FedAir specialises in premium point-to-point services for both leisure and business travellers. Its network serves key safari and conservation destinations including Kruger National Park and a number of private reserves such as Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Thornybush Game Reserve, Madikwe Game Reserve, Londolozi Game Reserve, and Marakele National Park.
The timing of the expansion aligns with a broader recovery in South Africa’s tourism sector. Data from Statistics South Africa shows that overseas arrivals increased by 27.6% year-on-year in September 2025, led by strong growth from the United States and the United Kingdom. Luxury safari travel has been a standout performer within this rebound, benefiting operators that offer seamless, high-quality access to remote destinations.
For FedAir, the additional aircraft strengthen its ability to capture this demand while maintaining the service standards expected by high-end lodge operators and international travellers. As safari tourism continues to gain momentum, the airline’s fleet investment positions it to support further growth while reinforcing its role as a key enabler of South Africa’s premium travel ecosystem.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com