FedAir Locks in to the Lowveld: A New Era of Safari Connectivity

Federal Airlines (FedAir), South Africa’s leading luxury safari air transfer operator, has announced a major strategic expansion into the country’s Lowveld region — a move set to transform regional lodge connectivity from May 2026.

The new six-aircraft Lowveld Schedule will link the region’s premier lodges directly with Kruger Mpumalanga International, Skukuza and Hoedspruit Airports, creating a seamless “safari-from-the-sky” experience. Tickets go on sale 17 November 2025, perfectly timed for 2026 safari bookings.

Streamlined Safari Travel

Guests will soon be able to arrive at one of the three gateway airports and connect quickly by air to their lodge airstrip, avoiding long road transfers. FedAir remains committed to its “no more than two stops” promise, ensuring faster travel and maximum time in the bush.

“To strengthen regional connectivity, increase schedule flexibility and shorten travel times — that’s what this expansion is all about,” says Jarryd Prince, FedAir’s Chief Commercial Officer.

To support the rollout, FedAir will add two new Cessna Grand Caravan EXs by the end of Q1 2026, an investment exceeding US$7.3 million. The expansion keeps FedAir’s fleet among the youngest in South African general aviation, underscoring confidence in the growth of the luxury safari market.

Upgraded Lounges and Continued Reliability

Complementing the new schedule, FedAir will unveil private lounges at Kruger, Skukuza and Hoedspruit, offering the same calm and comfort as its flagship Johannesburg Private Lounge.

While the Lowveld fleet will be strengthened, all existing FedAir routes remain unchanged, including:

• Daily direct flights between Johannesburg and Singita, Londolozi and MalaMala.
• Semi-direct flights to Ulusaba and Arathusa.
• Daily Flexi service between Johannesburg and the Lowveld.
• Direct services between Kruger International and Phinda.
• Double daily service to Madikwe and daily to Marataba (Thabazimbi).

Uncovered interlodge connections will continue through FedAir’s flexible Lowveld service.

Smarter Fares, Smarter Systems

The Lowveld Schedule will introduce zonal fares offering more competitive rates for intra-regional flights. A new X-Class Fare also allows travellers to bring one large hardshell bag (up to 32kg) with four seats per flight allocated for this option. Complimentary baggage storage remains available at Johannesburg and Kruger International.

In addition, a new booking platform launching in early 2026 will simplify reservations and integrate seamlessly with partner systems, improving efficiency for DMCs and lodges alike.

A Confident Step Forward

“We’re reimagining safari logistics,” says Prince. “By investing in modern aircraft, new lounges and smarter systems, we’re ensuring that our partners and their guests enjoy reliability, flexibility and comfort from the moment they take off.”

With its expanded footprint, upgraded infrastructure and refreshed fleet, FedAir is firmly positioning itself as Southern Africa’s premier safari aviation partner — delivering the speed, service and sophistication that define modern lodge air travel.