South Africa’s FlySafair Gets 12 Months to Meet Ownership Rules
FlySafair (FA, Johannesburg O.R. Tambo) has been granted 12 months by South Africa’s Air Services Licensing Council (ASLC) to comply with nationality regulations, ensuring its operations continue without disruption. The airline announced the ruling on February 4, 2025.
“There is no threat to operations, and we can now focus on serving our customers,” said Kirby Gordon, FlySafair’s chief marketing officer. The airline reassured passengers that it remains fully operational, with bookings and flights unaffected.
The ASLC ruling follows a December 2024 determination that FlySafair does not meet the legal requirement for 75% of voting rights to be held by South African citizens and residents. The council will require monthly progress reports but has not provided specific compliance guidelines beyond its original decision.
FlySafair is evaluating all options, including potential shareholder adjustments or legal challenges. “We will do everything in our power to ensure compliance within the next 12 months,” Gordon stated.
The ASLC’s investigation originated from a complaint by Lift Airlines operator, Global Aviation Operations (GE, Johannesburg O.R. Tambo), questioning FlySafair’s adherence to South Africa’s Air Services Licensing Act.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s International Air Services Licensing Council has yet to rule on a separate ownership compliance issue related to FlySafair’s international flight permits.
With a one-year adjustment period, FlySafair now has time to resolve its ownership structure while maintaining uninterrupted domestic flight services.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com