FlySafair reports profit in 2016, to slow growth and focus on cost in 2017

FlySafair announced (24-Jan-2017) it made a profit in 2016, its second year of operations, despite a tough trading environment, with low economic growth and excess capacity on domestic routes. The carrier recorded more than 2.6 million passengers and on time performance of 95.8%. Domestic passenger numbers across all airlines increased 6% year-on-year in 2016, but seat capacity increased by up to 12% and the trend of declining airfares continued. FlySafair added three aircraft in 2016, expanding its fleet to nine, and commenced Johannesburg Lanseria-Cape Town and Johannesburg Lanseria-George services in Aug-2016. The airline expects, "a year of consolidation" in 2017 and plans to slow growth and improve cost efficiencies. The carrier is considering, "a few possible expansion plans." FlySafair CEO Elmar Conradie said: "Now, more than ever, it's essential that carriers focus on keeping their cost per seat as low as possible. It's essential that we drive efficiencies across all aspects of our business in order to remain competitive." [more - original PR]