Infrastructure investment firm Harith has reached an agreement to acquire low-cost airline FlySafair, marking a significant development in South Africa’s aviation sector.
The proposed transaction, announced on Tuesday, remains subject to approval by the Competition Commission and relevant aviation regulators.
Harith, a Johannesburg-based infrastructure investor with more than $3 billion in assets under management, said the acquisition aligns with its broader strategy to strengthen transport infrastructure and connectivity across the African continent.
The deal follows a shareholder exit process at FlySafair that has been under consideration for several years. Harith said the transaction reflects confidence in the airline’s business model and current management, adding that there are no immediate plans to alter FlySafair’s leadership or day-to-day operations.
FlySafair said it would continue to focus on providing affordable and reliable air travel while the regulatory approval process is under way.
FlySafair chief marketing officer Kirby Gordon told media the airline viewed the transaction positively and would engage openly with authorities.
“We believe that this is a constructive step, and we will continue engaging transparently with the regulators, whose approval of the new structure is required to complete the transaction,” Gordon said.
Harith said it believes the acquisition could help bolster South Africa’s aviation industry at a time when demand for accessible air travel continues to grow.