Johannesburg, South Africa — 2026-02-11 South African Private Equity Firm Harith General Partners Set to Acquire FlySafair.
A significant transaction is on the horizon in South Africa’s aviation sector as Harith General Partners, a South African private equity firm, is in advanced talks to acquire FlySafair, the country’s largest budget carrier.
The deal, valued at approximately $3 billion, is subject to regulatory approval from competition and aviation regulators.
FlySafair, founded in 2006, has grown to become one of South Africa’s most successful and fastest-growing airlines. Harith General Partners, with over US$3 billion in assets under management, has a focus on energy, connectivity, transportation, and logistics across Africa.
The acquisition is part of Harith’s strategic expansion into the transport sector.
According to local reports, FlySafair will continue to operate under its current brand, leadership, and strategy following the acquisition. This move is seen as a strategic investment by Harith to strengthen its presence in the transport ecosystem across Africa.
The deal, however, has raised some concerns about the impact on competition within the South African aviation market, given the size of FlySafair. “.
While the deal may help with ownership compliance, the airline will continue to follow the necessary regulatory processes. Operations will continue under the existing leadership and strategy, “stated an official from bizcommunity.
Com.
The acquisition is subject to customary regulatory approvals, including approval by the Competition Commission.
The situation remains developing, with further details expected to emerge as the acquisition process continues. Official statements indicate that Harith General Partners has a history of investing in strategic infrastructure across Africa, including a stake in Lanseria International Airport.
Source: bizcommunity.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
