Fastjet Group is aiming to establish a branded operation in South African in 2020 as a result of its investment in charter operator Federal Airlines.
The group has a total of four ERJ-145s, which are operating for its Zimbabwe and Mozambique operations, following an overhaul of its activities and the divestment of its Tanzanian division.
Fastjet Group says its fleet is “now optimally-sized” for the markets it serves.
It has transferred one of its Embraer ERJ-145s to the South African register, placing it on the Federal Airlines air operator’s certificate as part of the preparation to create a South African division.
Federal Airlines, which turned in a $1.1 million net profit last year, has a fleet of 14 smaller aircraft including Pilatus, Cessna and Beechcraft types, of which four are owned.
The carrier will support Fastjet’s Zimbabwean operation on a wet-lease basis from July this year.
“This allows [Federal Airlines] to gain its own operational expertise on the ERJ-145 fleet,” says Fastjet Group, adding that it will also replace long-term support from Solenta Aviation.
Solenta Aviation Holdings is the majority owner of Fastjet Group, following a financial rescue last year, and has nearly 60% of the company.
Fastjet Group says Federal Airlines will provide an operating platform for Fastjet’s brand to enter the domestic South African market.
“South Africa represents the largest domestic aviation market on the African continent and is the largest trading partner to both Zimbabwe and Mozambique, while also being an important tourist source market for both these countries,” it states.
Source: Cirium Dashboard
