FastJet has taken the next step towards launching its planned air service in South Africa between Johannesburg and Cape Town by leading the negotiation for its colleagues, Federal Air and fastjet holdings, to lease a 737 aircraft from Starcargo Airlines, an aircraft leasing company based at OR Tambo Airport in Johannesburg, on a full ACMI "wet lease" service. Starcargo will be providing the aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance elements for the initial launch of the domestic service. Federal Air will operate the service for fastjet holdings (PTY) limited, in which the Company has a 25% interest.
This arrangement is initially for six months and will allow the quickest opportunity to enter into the South African market, and allows fastjet to operate whilst the Company goes through the process of obtaining permission from the South African authorities to operate its Airbus 319 aircraft in South Africa, in conjunction with the Federal Airlines relationship.
The Boeing 737-300 is a particularly successful aircraft that is frequently used by low cost airlines across the world. In this particular configuration, the aircraft has 144, leather seats, is powered by CFM engines.
"This is yet another definitive step towards the commencement of fastjet services and we remain on track for an end of May launch,” says Kyle Hayward, CEO of fastjet holdings (PTY). "fastjet is working hard with its South African partners to put this initial route (Johannesburg to Cape Town) on sale shortly."
FastJet South African plans advance
