As South Africa approaches the peak travel season, discussions around the high cost of domestic flights have flooded social media. While consumers are voicing concerns over rising prices, airlines are asserting that the overall cost of domestic flights has actually decreased compared to last year, despite peak season demand.
For example, one-way flights between Johannesburg and Cape Town for the week of 23 December are priced between R2,000 105 and R5,000 263, while flights from Johannesburg to George start at around R2,800 147 and Johannesburg to Durban at R1,900 100. According to FlySafair's Chief Marketing Officer, Kirby Gordon, the increase in domestic flight prices this year is below inflation, meaning that overall, prices have dropped slightly. Despite a surge in demand since September, the increase has been moderate and far less significant than in 2022, when rising fuel prices impacted flight costs.
Similarly, Airlink CEO Rodger Foster noted that flight prices have softened due to lower jet fuel costs compared to the previous year. He explained that pricing is largely determined by supply and demand, and during high season, airlines use "opportunistic pricing" for the limited remaining seats after cheaper tickets have sold out. Travelers who leave their bookings until the last minute are more likely to pay full fare.
While domestic flight prices may seem expensive compared to international standards, experts like Linden Birns, Managing Director of Plane Talking, argue that South Africa remains one of the more affordable markets for air travel. He attributes the cost of flights to several factors, with fuel being the leading cost determinant. Although fuel prices have decreased slightly, South Africas shift to importing jet fuel after the closure of local refineries means that the price adjustments are slower and more costly.
Another factor driving up costs is the shortage of aircraft due to restrictions on Boeings 737 deliveries, which has resulted in fewer new planes being available and higher prices for existing aircraft.
Highlights
- Domestic flight prices for peak season range from R1,900 100 to R5,000 263 depending on the route.
- FlySafair and Airlink report that prices have actually decreased slightly compared to last year, despite peak season demand.
- Fuel is the main cost factor for airlines, with South Africas reliance on imported jet fuel increasing costs.
- A shortage of aircraft and delays in new deliveries have led to higher prices in the narrow-body plane market.
- Opportunistic pricing during high season means last-minute travelers may face full fares. South Africa remains relatively affordable for air travel compared to global markets.
