South Africa Domestic Flights: Reviews & Tips

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South Africa Domestic Flights: Reviews & Tips

Planning a trip within South Africa? Figuring out the best way to hop between cities can be a bit of a puzzle. This guide dives into the world of domestic flights in South Africa, offering you insights, reviews, and tips to make your travel planning smoother than a perfectly brewed cup of rooibos tea. We'll cover everything from popular airlines and routes to what travelers are saying about their experiences. Let's get started!

Navigating South African Skies: An Overview

South Africa boasts a well-developed domestic flight network, making it easy to travel between major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha). Several airlines operate these routes, each with its own pros, cons, and target audience. Understanding the lay of the land, or rather, the lay of the skies, is the first step in ensuring a hassle-free trip.

Airlines to Consider:

  • South African Airways (SAA): The flag carrier, SAA, offers a wide range of domestic flights, often with connections to international routes. While they've faced challenges in recent years, they remain a key player.
  • Kulula: Known for its quirky branding and budget-friendly fares, Kulula is a popular choice for leisure travelers. Keep an eye out for their special deals! Unfortunately, Kulula ceased operations in 2022, but it's important to know it used to be a major player.
  • British Airways (operated by Comair): While technically British Airways, these domestic flights are operated by Comair under the BA brand. They offer a good balance of service and price. Comair, like Kulula, also unfortunately ceased operations in 2022.
  • FlySafair: A consistently reliable and affordable option, FlySafair has gained a strong reputation for on-time performance and customer satisfaction. This is often a go-to choice for many South African travelers.
  • Lift: A newer airline aiming to disrupt the market with flexible booking options and a focus on customer experience. They're worth checking out for their innovative approach.
  • CemAir: CemAir is a smaller airline that flies to certain niche routes, including some smaller airports that other major airlines may not serve. It's worth investigating if you're trying to get to a less common destination.

Popular Domestic Routes:

  • Johannesburg (JNB) to Cape Town (CPT): The busiest route, connecting the economic hub with the tourism capital.
  • Johannesburg (JNB) to Durban (DUR): A frequent route for business and leisure travelers alike.
  • Cape Town (CPT) to Durban (DUR): Connecting two of South Africa's most beautiful coastal cities.

What Travelers Are Saying: Reviews and Experiences

Okay, guys, let's get to the juicy stuff – what are people actually saying about flying these domestic routes? Reviews can be a mixed bag, but here's a general overview of what to expect:

FlySafair: FlySafair frequently gets high marks for punctuality and value. Passengers often praise their on-time performance, clean aircraft, and friendly service. The biggest complaint, when it exists, is usually about baggage fees or limited legroom (typical of budget airlines).

Lift: Lift generally receives positive feedback for its customer service and flexible booking policies. Passengers appreciate the ability to change flights easily, and the airline seems to be making an effort to create a more pleasant travel experience. As a newer airline, they're actively trying to win over customers.

South African Airways (SAA): Reviews for SAA can be more varied. While some passengers appreciate the comfort and service associated with a full-service carrier, others have expressed concerns about reliability and potential delays, especially given the airline's financial struggles in recent years. It's crucial to check recent reviews before booking with SAA.

The dearly departed (Kulula and British Airways/Comair): Since these airlines are no longer operating, their reviews are more historical. However, it's worth noting that Kulula was generally well-regarded for its budget-friendly fares and fun atmosphere, while British Airways (Comair) offered a more premium experience. Their absence has definitely changed the landscape of domestic air travel in South Africa.

Common Themes in Reviews:

  • Punctuality: This is a big one! Delays can be frustrating, especially if you have connecting flights or a tight schedule. FlySafair tends to be the most reliable in this regard.
  • Baggage Fees: Budget airlines often charge extra for checked baggage, so factor this into your overall cost.
  • Customer Service: Friendly and helpful staff can make a huge difference in your travel experience.
  • Comfort: Legroom can be tight on some airlines, especially on budget carriers. Consider paying extra for a seat with more space if you're tall or prefer more room to stretch out.

Pro Tips for Booking Domestic Flights in South Africa

Alright, let's arm you with some insider knowledge to snag the best deals and avoid potential headaches:

  • Book in Advance: Generally, the earlier you book, the better the price. This is especially true during peak season (December-January) and school holidays.
  • Be Flexible with Your Dates: If possible, try flying on weekdays or during off-peak hours, as these flights tend to be cheaper.
  • Compare Prices: Use comparison websites like Travelstart, Skyscanner, or Google Flights to compare prices from different airlines. Don't just stick to one site!.
  • Consider Budget Airlines: If you're willing to forgo frills like free meals and checked baggage, budget airlines like FlySafair can save you a significant amount of money.
  • Read the Fine Print: Pay close attention to baggage allowances, change fees, and cancellation policies before booking.
  • Sign Up for Email Alerts: Many airlines offer email alerts for special deals and promotions. This is a great way to stay informed about potential discounts.
  • Check for Package Deals: Sometimes, you can save money by booking your flight and accommodation together as a package.
  • Factor in Airport Transfers: Don't forget to factor in the cost and time of getting to and from the airport. Uber, Bolt, and airport shuttles are all viable options.
  • Consider alternative airports: While less common, flying into smaller regional airports close to your destination can provide lower prices.

Luggage allowance and restrictions

Understanding the luggage allowance and restrictions for domestic flights in South Africa is crucial for a smooth travel experience. Each airline has its own specific rules, so it's essential to check the details before you pack. Here's a general overview of what you can expect:

Carry-on Luggage:

  • Most airlines allow one carry-on bag and one personal item (like a handbag or laptop bag).
  • The maximum weight for carry-on luggage is typically around 7kg (15 lbs), but this can vary.
  • Make sure your carry-on bag meets the size restrictions, which are usually around 56cm x 36cm x 23cm (22in x 14in x 9in).
  • Liquids in your carry-on bag must be in containers of 100ml (3.4 oz) or less and placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag.

Checked Luggage:

  • Checked luggage allowances vary depending on the airline and the fare you purchase.
  • Budget airlines often charge extra for checked luggage, while full-service carriers may include one or two checked bags in the price of your ticket.
  • The maximum weight for checked luggage is usually around 20kg (44 lbs) to 23kg (50 lbs) per bag.
  • If your bag exceeds the weight limit, you may have to pay an overweight baggage fee.

Restricted Items:

  • There are certain items that you are not allowed to bring on a plane, either in your carry-on or checked luggage. These include flammable liquids, explosives, and sharp objects.
  • Check with the airline for a complete list of restricted items before you pack.

Tips for Avoiding Baggage Fees:

  • Pack light and try to fit everything into a carry-on bag.
  • Wear your heaviest clothes on the plane.
  • Ship items to your destination ahead of time.
  • Consider purchasing a fare that includes checked baggage.

Staying Connected: Airports and Transport

South Africa's major airports are well-equipped to handle domestic and international flights. Here's a quick rundown:

  • OR Tambo International Airport (JNB): Located in Johannesburg, this is the busiest airport in Africa and a major hub for domestic and international flights. It offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, and services.
  • Cape Town International Airport (CPT): This airport serves the city of Cape Town and is a popular gateway to the Western Cape region. It's modern and efficient, with good connections to the city center.
  • King Shaka International Airport (DUR): Located in Durban, this airport offers domestic and international flights. It's a modern facility with a good selection of shops and restaurants.
  • Gqeberha Airport (PLZ): Formerly known as Port Elizabeth Airport, this airport serves the Eastern Cape region. It mainly handles domestic flights.

Getting To and From the Airport:

  • Uber/Bolt: Ride-sharing services are readily available at most major airports in South Africa. This is often the most convenient and affordable option.
  • Airport Shuttles: Many hotels and guesthouses offer airport shuttle services. This can be a good option if you have a lot of luggage or prefer a door-to-door service.
  • Car Rental: If you plan to explore the region on your own, renting a car is a good option. All major airports have car rental agencies.
  • Gautrain (Johannesburg): The Gautrain is a rapid rail link that connects OR Tambo International Airport to Johannesburg and Pretoria. This is a fast and efficient way to get to the city center.

Final Thoughts

Domestic flights in South Africa offer a convenient way to explore this diverse and beautiful country. By doing your research, booking in advance, and being aware of baggage allowances and other restrictions, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. So go ahead, book that flight, and get ready to discover all that South Africa has to offer! Safe travels, guys!