FedAir Expands its Wings in the Lowveld

Federal Airlines (FedAir) has revealed a significant strategic expansion set to considerably enlarge its renowned lodge shuttle network throughout the Lowveld starting in May 2026. This initiative reinforces the airline's enduring position as the cornerstone of luxury safari connectivity in Southern Africa. It establishes a more organised, high-frequency schedule connecting major regional hubs with the nation's top private lodges.

Starting in mid-May next year, FedAir will launch a Lowveld Schedule with six aircraft, linking nearly all of its premier lodge airstrips to Kruger Mpumalanga International (KMIA), Skukuza, and Hoedspruit airports. This schedule, available for purchase on 17 November 2025, aims to simplify regional travel and provide travellers with a smooth transition from commercial flights to the bush.

The new operation enables guests arriving at any of the three main entry airports to connect directly to their lodge airstrip within minutes, removing the lengthy and uncomfortable road transfers that frequently consume valuable vacation time.

“Our mission is simple, maximise time in the bush and minimise time in transit,” says Jarryd Prince, FedAir’s Chief Commercial Officer. “We’re reimagining safari logistics for the modern traveller by offering faster, more flexible, and more reliable regional air access.”

FedAir will continue its policy of allowing no more than two stops on any route, a crucial aspect that has consistently set the brand apart for its efficiency and reliability. This strategy guarantees shorter travel durations, greater scheduling flexibility, and a generally smoother experience for passengers.

To address the operational needs of the expanded schedule, FedAir plans to incorporate two new Cessna Grand Caravan EXs into its fleet in early 2026. This $ 7.3 million investment highlights the airline's confidence in the market and its dedication to maintaining one of the youngest general aviation fleets in South Africa.

In addition to acquiring new aircraft, FedAir is enhancing its ground facilities. New exclusive lounges are set to open at Kruger, Skukuza, and Hoedspruit airports, providing guests with the same serene and comfortable experience that frequent travellers associate with the airline’s premier Johannesburg Private Lounge. These lounges will feature personalised service, refreshments, and a tranquil atmosphere, all integral to the "FedAir experience" before guests embark on their flights into the bush.

While the Lowveld will see an increase in aircraft positioning, FedAir has confirmed that its existing services will continue unaffected. The airline will maintain:

• Daily direct flights between Johannesburg and Singita, Londolozi, and MalaMala

• Daily semi-direct flights between Johannesburg, Ulusaba, and Arathusa

• Daily Flexi Service between Johannesburg and the Lowveld

• Daily direct services between Kruger International and Phinda

• Double daily flights between Johannesburg and Madikwe

• Daily service between Johannesburg and Marataba (Thabazimbi)

Destinations between lodges or in the Lowveld not included in the new schedule can still be accessed via the daily Flexi Service, ensuring full coverage for FedAir’s network partners. The new Lowveld Schedule will also implement zonal fares, offering a straightforward and cost-effective pricing system intended to make regional air travel more affordable and predictable. These fares will benefit both direct travellers and destination management companies (DMCs) managing guest transfers across various lodges.

Following frequent guest feedback, FedAir is introducing an X-Class Fare, enabling travellers to carry a large hardshell bag weighing up to 32 kg with total dimensions of 158 cm. To meet weight-and-balance requirements, only four X-Class seats will be available per flight. Guests who prefer to travel light can still take advantage of FedAir’s free baggage storage at Johannesburg and Kruger International airports.

FedAir is enhancing its infrastructure by investing in advanced systems to align with its growing physical network. A new reservation platform, scheduled for launch in the first quarter of 2026, will streamline the booking process and facilitate integration with lodge and DMC booking systems. This upgrade will also ensure that existing bookings compatible with the new schedule automatically benefit from updated fares and improved routing.

“With this expansion, we’re positioning FedAir as the go-to logistics partner for safari lodges, DMCs, and travel professionals across Southern Africa,” says Prince. “By investing in aircraft, infrastructure, and technology, we’re ensuring that our partners and their guests continue to enjoy the reliability, flexibility, and service excellence that define the FedAir brand.”

The Lowveld Schedule marks a major advancement for the airline that first introduced lodge-to-lodge connectivity in the region over 20 years ago. With new aircraft, improved lounges, and a more efficient operational model, FedAir continues to prove why it is the core of safari aviation in South Africa.